The objective of this paper is to provide some practical insight into the process of implementing large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCT) in educational settings and to provide general recommendations for researchers conducting education-based RCTs in the future. The authors draw their recommendations from their recent experiences…

This article provides practical guidance for researchers who are designing studies that randomize groups to measure the impacts of educational interventions. The article (a) provides new empirical information about the values of parameters that influence the precision of impact estimates (intraclass correlations and R[superscript 2] values) and…

This article discusses the practical application of mixed quantitative and qualitative designs. Mixed methods designs can be especially powerful in illuminating policy solutions and directions for social action, thus supporting the social justice goals of social work and other helping professions. However, the decision to combine methods must be…

In the studies described, focus groups were conducted with recreation administrators, special-interest groups, and the general public to determine needs and opinions about recreation and leisure activities. The ways in which the groups elicited information about the needs, language, and history of the community are discussed. (SLD)

Volume two presents the study's two purposes (to document the effects of Federal financing of adult basic education on the delivery systems, and to propose models for financing adult education) and describes its design and findings in detail. It is a complete account of the project, including descriptions of case studies in each of five States.…

A systematic approach to disseminaton of vocational education research and development program improvement efforts is comprehensive, effective, and efficient. Systematic dissemination is a prerequisite link to assessing impact of research and development--for program improvement to occur, successful dissemination is crucial. A systematic approach…

Objectives, methodologies, and procedures for conducting a follow-up study of 1977-78 occupational program graduates of the Illinois community colleges are outlined in this handbook. One of three planned studies of former occupational students (FY1978 program graduates, FY1979 occupational skill completers, and FY1979 and FY1980 program leavers),…

The research methods, procedures, and data for determining the impact of 10 fine arts institutions on the Springfield, Illinois, economy (1978) are outlined. A 30-equation model was used to identify a variety of effects on local businesses, government, and individuals. Researchers examined internal records of the 10 institutions as well as local,…

This book contains eight papers examining the evidence from three field experiences in Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Washington that were conducted to identify the impact of reemployment bonuses on the following indicators characterizing the unemployment insurance (UI) program: weeks of UI receipt during the benefit year; dollars of UI received…

A project was undertaken to develop standardized procedures for use in conducting follow-up and assessment of adult education students, including students in basic and secondary education, general educational development (GED) programs, and vocational training. The major activities of the project included the following: review of the literature…