This essay discusses how technical processes can deceive us and how college educators and social scientists must be especially sensitive to the dangers of technology when conducting research and proposing applications from research. As technology and bureaucratic controls have grown, so too have the demands for specialized knowledge in many areas.…

An examination of the literature supports the view that the implications of text studies have yet to have much impact on classrooms. For example, word frequency lists have been used widely in the preparation of reading materials. However, few books come with a list of the frequency of the words they contain. Thus, the main use of comparing texts…

This paper makes a case for the existence and study of the wisdom of practice by looking at educational practitioners' concepts as its locus and source. (These concepts may also be described as the accumulated "folk wisdom" of the teaching community). These communal concepts, part of an accumulated lore regarding teaching and education…

Suggests a new model for the relationship between research and practice in adult education. Concludes that the active involvement of both researchers and teachers is necessary if research is to solve educational problems. (CH)

Critiques attempts to resurrect aspects of positivism and argues that the work of certain post-positivist philosophers (in particular, Toulmin's discussions of the role that purpose plays in rational decisionmaking) provides a more adequate response to the problems associated with relativism. (Author/GC)

Explains why it is important for educators to learn about brain stage theory, which asserts that the brain grows in stages or spurts during which it is capable of learning at higher cognitive levels. (FL)

The status of education as a recognized professional field will not be achieved until more value and emphasis are placed on the conduct of educational research. (SK)

Suggests that the work of reading researchers may be ineffective because it lacks a practical impact on teacher educators or classroom teachers. (AEA)

Presents three reasons given by teachers for turning their backs on research--(1) a lack of understanding of research methods, (2) a perceived lack of skills, and (3) a suspicion of research. Responds to each of these positions. (FL)

Issues, concerning the utilization, application, and usefulness of educational research, are examined. Also explored are reasons why practitioners do or do not use research findings in their work and how educational research can meet the needs of schools. (CJ)

A fictional conversation between Saint Peter and an educational researcher debates the question of whether educational research too often yields results that are patently true or trivially true or useless to practitioners, and, if so, what might be done about that state of affairs. (Author/CJ)

All students of education need to learn what educational research is and how it can be read and understood. Successful review of research reports involves identifying and analyzing the research problem; the theoretical concepts concerned; the research assumptions; the methodology and procedures utilized; and the findings, conclusions, and…

Discusses characteristics that determine whether studies are significant Research: (1) framework of the research; (2) credibility of the research; and (3) applicability or consumer needs. Relates these characteristics to recent research in the fields of creative drama and children's theater. (PD)

Contends that even in the new era of financial limitations on educational research and development (R & D), this enterprise can thrive if adaptations are made in certain areas, including: (1) bases for judging R & D success; (2) bases for financing; (3) view of educational institutions; (4) role responsibilities; (5) communication clarity; and (6)…

In exploring the question of teaching effectiveness research, this essay provides historical insight, an analysis of present day uses of this research data, and examples of the potential utility of this research. (MM)