Between 2004 and 2008, the Council for Advancement of Adult Literacy (CAAL) published four lengthy research reports on projects to examine the nature and effectiveness of Adult Education English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) programs at several community colleges. The research was conducted by field studies, interviews, and the review of a large…

The main characteristic of Distance Learning is that the student is taught and learns without his tutor's physical presence in the classroom. The opportunity for a direct (face to face) communication between all members of the educational group [tutor counselor (TC) and students] in Distance Learning is offered by the Tutorials/Contact Sessions…

Discusses experimental work with computer-simulated microworlds as a means for overcoming the tension between laboratory research and field research in psychology. Topics addressed include characteristics of microworlds; examples of microworlds; and three approaches to research with microworlds, including the individual differences approach, case…

Discusses the importance of field methods in education and social research. Highlights include the argument against antinaturalism; scientific realism and social science; challenges to the validity of inferences from field studies; and threats to the validity of field research. (Contains 52 references.) (LRW)

Discusses the limitations of laboratory research in evaluating second language instruction, arguing that field research, which fosters a concern for what works in the classroom first, is more desirable because it provides direct feedback to instructors. (Author/CB)

The origins, development, and influences of James McKeen Cattell's research on the conditions, performance, traits, and other characteristics of preeminent American scientists are discussed. Cattell's role in the development of academic quality rankings is noted. (MSE)

Defines and describes phenomenography as a research methodology, and argues for its utility in examining aspects of higher education. Reviews research in higher education using the phenomenographic approach, outlines cautions in using it, and discusses alternative explanations offered in the debate over phenomenography. Previews a series of…

A major change in the pattern of U.S. research on higher education is occurring, characterized by more emphasis on state policy, institutional type, and issues shared by institutions. Methodology is broadening to include more historic, ethnographic, and qualitative research as well as quantitative study. (MSE)

The emergence of interest in the quantitative, structural, and administrative aspects of higher education as a field of study is chronicled, and comparisons are made in the ways the institutional research field developed in the United States and Western Europe. (MSE)