Highlights some of the limitations of meta-analytic knowledge claims. Illustrates their problematic consequences for later research. Details effective methods of dealing with these potential problems. (SR)

Focuses on applications of a widely cited empirical study in the communication field--A. Mehrabian and S. Ferris' 1967 study that inferred that communication is 7% verbal, 38% vocal, and 55% facial. Notes that these applications overlook important limitations which do not warrant formulation of a precise numerical formula. Discusses lessons…

Argues that the meetings of the National Council of Teachers of English and the Conference on College Composition and Communication should focus on improving the literacy skills of students rather than promulgating superficial results of poorly conducted research. (RS)

Business/industry and academic/scientific values sometimes clash during collaborative research, for example, in limitations on free publication of results and the influence of money on the research agenda. A framework that maximizes mutual benefits and limits the potential for damage can resolve some of these conflicts. (SK)

Proposes that there be more direct carryover of what has been learned about measurement in research to measurement in teaching (specifically, grading). Major sources of error in the measurement process are identified, and seven tested social science research strategies are presented. Suggests that to the extent measurement is varied and repeated,…

Three factors are considered that contribute to the perception that the higher education research effort has done a poor job in dealing with problems confronting academe. The first factor is the magnitude of the higher education enterprise and the number of problems and issues inherent in it. The second factor is the level of support for research,…

Introductory comments to a special issue of the journal survey the papers selected for publication and challenge the research community to respond to criticisms of research on higher education. (Author/LB)

Discusses 3 alternatives for university-based research. (PG)

This article relates a brief historical background of social sciences in Japan, the institutional framework of social science education and research, and major issues and perspectives for the development of the social scinces. (ND)

Discusses a survey of one hundred speech communication departments to determine practices and policies regarding selection and use of subjects in research. Looks at potential effects of generalizing research results from such a population and suggests methods for resolving generality problems in speech communication research. (MH)

Higher education research, still in its adolescence, suffers from (1) seldom addressing major issues, and (2) research methods that are too narrow. The scientific method is not appropriate for studying individuals or social institutions; higher education researchers need to develop a multi-faceted research strategy sensitive to its many ties with…

Perceived lack of quality in educational research is due to length of time to see results, the disarray of the field, and politicization. Improvements are needed in conceptualization, methodology, and the composition and technical format of research reports. (SK)

Research conducted by Patrick Clancy and by Fitzpatrick Associates and Philip O'Connell on the level of representation of socio-economic groups amongst higher education entrants has been a key element in the development of access policy and practice in Ireland. This article reviews the context for the development of access and explores the…

In order for education to evolve from a craft to a profession, a spirit of inquiry must be infused into the beliefs and activities of education faculty members and practicing teachers. For faculty members in professional schools, the responsibilities of teaching, research, and service should be integrated activities for which inquiry serves as the…

Explores concerns about the functions of research and uses of research findings, examines the institutional context of research and some of the problems faced by social sciences, and identifies some possible approaches and changes in institutional structure which would strengthen the role and effectiveness of social scientists and rural…