Examines the state of educational policy analysis, discussing the field's history, conceptual approaches to policy, areas of policy that have been studied, and methodological issues. Concludes with speculation on the future of policy research. (MCG)

In replies to two critiques of his 1980 article, appearing in the fall 1982 issue of "Educational Administration Quarterly," the author first questions the notion that all organizations must meet certain requirements to survive and, second, denies that structured observation research on school administrators is "neo-Taylorism."…

This paper draws upon a range of ideas and concepts developed by the British sociologist Basil Bernstein to examine recent challenges and changes encountered by members of professional occupations, including those who teach and research in higher education. The paper discusses and seeks to develop Bernstein's analysis of how particular…

The potential of three relevant theoretical approaches to the study of individual outcomes from participation in adult education is assessed. The perspectives include: (1) the theory of human capital; (2) the status attainment tradition; and (3) the theory of cultural capital. (TJH)

Describes the views and goals of Paulo Freire. Presents an interview with Freire where he discusses his life, works, writing habits, pedagogy, social ideas, research, critical literacy, and other topics. (PRA)

Proposes changing the direction of studies on advanced development (giftedness), using Feldman's and Vygotsky's research to argue that the focus should be on ordinary parts of life which contribute to extraordinary achievement. The paper suggests the importance of studying people within a field over time, examining the individual and the situation…

It is now recognised that inclusive schools must recognise and respond to the needs of learners regardless of any difficulties they may have. Similarly, the South African Constitution (1996) requires education to be "transformed and democratised in accordance with the values of human dignity, equity, human rights and freedom, non-racism and…

This paper advocates the use of cognitive maps by researchers in comparative education. Cognitive maps are defined as "visual imageries depicting on the two dimensional surface of a screen or paper the researcher's perceived application, allocation, or appropriation of social space by social groups at a given time and in a given place." The use of…

This paper provides a critical review essay of Ajay Sharma's "Portrait of a science teacher as a bricoleur: A case study from India." The main focus is two fold. First, arguments are presented to draw attention to how little advances in science teaching and science learning research have impacted teachers' practice and student…

This paper offers reflections on personal beliefs and practices used to construct and communicate knowledge about social studies teaching and learning with preservice elementary teachers. The paper draws upon one person's personal experiences, student journals, student interviews, course documents, field notes, and audio tapes of an instructor.…

Beginning with an overview of the anthropological heritage of educational anthropology, the outgoing editor of this journal reviews the development of the field and comments on the implications of anthropology for research on educational policy. (Author/GC)

Explores some features of controversies about the production of knowledge by considering assumptions that have guided social theory at least since the 19th century. When systems of reasoning in educational studies are examined as social practices, it becomes apparent that the stakes of educational research are social and political as well as…

In this concluding article we discuss how the different contributors of this special issue deal with the methodological challenges in special needs education research. The shift from an individual perspective towards an interactional and systemic point of view in special educational needs research has introduced research methods that are able to…

Theories of learning in social settings, no matter their philosophical orientation, must address issues of intersubjectivity (IS). This paper starts with the premise that IS is a fundamental and unavoidable aspect of social interaction, and that understanding its nature is necessary for developing reliable theories of socially mediated learning…

The global rescaling of the world, culture, and education has influenced how people experience their situationality, meaning-making, and learning in relation to the Other. This article explores the implications of spatial analysis for rethinking education in new conditions of cultural complexity. The experience of living and learning with…