Meta-analytic reviews have shown that gifted students gain little from programs of minimal instructional modification (multilevel classes), more from greater modifications (cross-grade and within-class programs) and the most from those involving the greatest amount of curricular adjustment (enrichment and acceleration). (Author/DB)

A simple statistical model to measure the effects of innovation and schooling is proposed. Synthesis of 134 meta-analyses revealed that educational innovations can be expected to change average achievement by 0.4 standards deviations and affective outcomes by 0.2 standard deviations. Innovation and feedback appear to enhance effects;…

Meta-analysis of 225 hypothesis tests of measures of memory for order (MFO) and the relationship of MFO and measures of general ability demonstrate a significant relationship between MFO and standardized test scores. Fifty-one independent samples were tested. MFO task quality was a significant predictor of effect size. (SLD)

This paper examines studies of the Minnesota Institute which were interpreted as demonstrating that students with learning disabilities are not distinguishable from other low-achieving students. Results of the reexamination indicate that learning disabilities and low achievement can be clearly differentiated, even in studies indicating that little…

Examines the effects of time restriction on social interaction in computer-mediated communication through a meta-analysis of applicable research. Derives hypotheses from Joseph Walther's social information processing perspective. Supports these hypotheses on social communication. (HB)

This review analyzes data-based studies dealing with self-management procedures (self-monitoring, self-evaluation, self-reinforcement, and self-instruction) used by individuals with mental retardation in public school settings. Although support is found for the positive effects of self-management, questions regarding efficient implementation of…

Analyzed data from 11 studies of concordance of mother/father attachment to an infant based on the Strange Situation. Found that security of attachment, type of insecurity, and subcategory classification of security to one parent depended on the other parent. Discussed parenting styles and infant temperament. (BC)

A meta-analysis of studies examining the interrater reliability of the standard practice of peer assessments of quality of care was conducted through the use of several databases. The mean weighted kappa of 21 findings from 13 studies was 0.31, which suggests that the interrater reliability of peer assessment is limited. (SLD)

Summarizes the findings of quantitative research syntheses to show the variability and unpredictability of special education interventions. Concludes that special education cannot operate on the basis of lawlike relationships but rather must mediate its interventions through what is known about effective schooling that emphasizes the context of…

Describes and compares the research that has utilized and specifically tested the measurement instrument known as the MECA (Measurement of Elementary Communication Apprehension). Offers cautions, develops problems, and provides recommendations for future research. (SR)

Reviews 10 studies, comprising 11 samples, of the effects of reading to young children in schools. Ages of the children varied between 31 and 90 months, and dependent variables were classified in two domains: oral language and reading skills. (Author/VWL)

Using results of a best-evidence synthesis and a meta-analysis of an extensive international database, it is argued that there is no empirical evidence at the moment showing that student learning suffers in combination classes. No support is found for the selection bias suggested by D. Mason and R. Burns (1997). (SLD)

S. Veenman argues that his reviews of the literature lead to the conclusion that combination classes are neither worse nor better than single-grade classes. This rejoinder discusses disagreements with Veenman's findings, which are hampered by a narrow reading and interpretation of the literature on potential positive effects of combination…

Application of systematic research synthesis procedures to 28 studies of general education teachers' attitudes toward inclusion indicated that, overall, about two-thirds of the teachers support inclusion. Their support, however, varied depending on the disability. Only one-third or less believed that they have the time, skills, training, or…

In a meta-analysis of the effect of adding hypnosis to cognitive-behavioral treatments for weight reduction, additional data were obtained from authors of two previous studies, and computational inaccuracies in the previous meta-analyses were corrected. Discusses findings. Correlational analyses indicated that the benefits of hypnosis increased…