Discusses the use of transaction-cost economics in measuring the impact of educational reforms and whether these reforms are likely to succeed in the "real life" of schools. Several current educational reforms are judged on the basis of their transaction costs and consequent prospects for success. (GR)

Suggests that all evaluation models are based on variations in the assumptions of liberal ideology. The models differ from one another as the basic assumptions vary. (Author/AM)

Discusses the following aspects of educational evaluation: (1) structural changes; (2) conceptual changes; (3) mixed methods and unraveling consensus; (4) utilization of findings; (5) the role of values; and (6) the role of politics. Discusses how evaluation moved from monolithic to pluralistic, reflecting the change from consensus to pluralism in…

John Dewey attempted to connect knowledge and reality through a naturalized epistemology but produced an anthropomorphic ontology in which things are shaped too much by the mind. Many of Dewey's ideas are still relevant, but taken as an intact set of ideas, they are not applicable to the world of today. (SLD)

The incorrect Humean notion of causation in the standard view of science has had devastating effects on social science research. Alternatively, scientific realism, as illustrated in R. Bhaskar's work, provides a scientific framework for research, incorporates the perceptions and intentions of participants, and advances critical values (i.e.,…

The main differences between pragmatism and scientific realism seem to focus on the certainty of knowledge. Pragmatists contend that one can never be entirely certain of one's beliefs, whereas scientific realists argue that progress has been, and can be, made in explaining things about the world. (SLD)

The greatest American educational transformation in the next few decades is likely to occur in higher education, which has been both enormously successful and immensely expensive. Ways in which the extensive retrenchment to be expected will be implemented are discussed, as is the projected impact on research. (SLD)