Arguments for significantly improving doctoral programs have long been made, both nationally and internationally. The nature and variety of doctoral programs makes it difficult to single out specific changes that would be equally applicable to every discipline-specific doctoral program. Therefore, this commentary will focus on doctoral programs…

Argues that multiple theoretical perspectives and applied careers versus basic interests need not divide the discipline of sociology. Contends that the idea of a disciplinary core will be more easily operationalized if sociologists orient themselves toward the skills which comprise the essence of their work. (Author/DH)

Describes a postgraduate research degree program in National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) designed and offered at the University of Sussex. Vocational education and training is discussed, a brief historical background of NVQs and the National Council for Vocational Qualifications is included, and the development of the degree program is…

Emphasizes that the heart of a graduate sociology curriculum should be research training, including practicums and internships. The curriculum should include coverage of basic areas with specialities based on faculty expertise and other strengths of the university. The selection of worthwhile research problems and how to communicate results are…

Includes exercises developed to assist industrial education graduate educators and students in developing essential research competencies. These competencies are (1) using resource tools, (2) identifying and analyzing research problems, (3) evaluating research studies, and (4) applying editorial criteria to research. (JOW)

For many practitioners, reading about or doing research is not seen as a viable means by which to learn about human behavior. In reaction to the non-utility view of research, a number of writers have questioned the validity of the scientist-practitioner model, or reinterpreted the model, or asked psychologists to reconsider the philosophy of…

The role of institutional research is examined as well as the essential qualities and tasks of the research personnel. The need to draw into the field able and analytical persons of integrity with strong backgrounds and experiences in various disciplines is cited. (Author/SF)

A discussion supporting the systematic integration of research skills into graduate study programs looks at five different strategies for developing this area of the graduate curriculum, including both broad-based and specific methods and theoretical and practical approaches. Issues and problems addressed at one institution are examined. (MSE)

The traditional characteristics of academic graduate studies and preservice teacher education are inherently similar. This article reviews, summarizes, and strengthens the justifications for graduate-level preservice teacher education. (IAH)

This response to EC 603 649 argues that the field of applied behavior analysis does train a large number of practitioners and administrators and a few researchers, that graduate programs already vary research training and practice training, and that both practicing and research behavior analysts need to be taught the logic of experimental control.…

Three education professors returning to the classroom as students in a graduate course on research methods analyze the experience through a collaborative project in which they examined themselves as researchers. Recommendations are offered about the use of such collaborative reflection as a means of professional development. (MSE)

This paper addresses several problems relating to the use of research materials and information resources by graduate students and proposes teaching educational research skills in an introductory-level graduate research course, "Information Resources for Educational Research," to be taught by the Memphis State University (MSU) Library…

This book provides a practical, realistic understanding of the process of doing research for a doctorate degree (Ph.D.) from a British viewpoint. The work discusses many issues often left unconsidered, such as the emotional investment made by students and its effects, the skills required by an effective supervisor, and the importance of time. The…

Seven articles on higher education and research and development in Australia are presented, along with 12 review articles. "Research into Postgraduate Education" (Ernest Rudd) reviews such topics as admission criteria, student characteristics, form and quality of instruction, and the employment market. "Postgraduate Education…

Reviews the potential applications for computer methods in gerontological research. Considers the revision of graduate curricula for training research gerontologists to incorporate training in computer methods on a more systematic and detailed basis. Illustrates useful principles for these curriculum modifications. (Author/RC)