The National Study of Student Learning indicated that membership in Greek organizations can have negative effects on students' cognitive development, particularly during freshman year. In contrast, this study at a midwestern research university found Greek students had higher levels of involvement and gains in general abilities than non-Greek…

Examined the persistence of students (n=937), 24 years of age or older, studying in two- and four-year degree programs by combining data from a survey questionnaire and institutional records. The structural equation model of Cabrera et al. (1993) was adapted for this older population, with identification of three additional variables: career…

This study with 203 college students used structural equation analysis and found that the relationship between students' academic stress and course grades was influenced by problem-focused coping and motivation, but not by emotion-focused coping. Greater academic stress covaried with lower course grades. (DB)

Examination of student (n=79) motivation to learn via computer conferencing (CC) found that students who believe CC will help them learn the course material (outcome expectations) and believe they are capable of learning how to use CC (self-efficacy) are more likely to be active online than students without these beliefs or those who are concerned…

This study used data from the National Longitudinal Study of the High School Class of 1972 with a model of educational attainment for whites (n=6,512) and blacks (n=699) that explicitly measured for a father's presence in the household. No substantial differences were found in the process of educational attainment between these groups when…

Using a large data set collected in Hong Kong, this study examined how Chinese students behave in the course evaluation process. Results suggest that Chinese students, like their Western counterparts, are able to distinguish separate dimensions of teaching quality. Due to their cultural background, however, they pay more attention in their…

Presents the idea of teachers as researchers in Australia. Summarizes each study presented in Research in Science Education, volume 30. (YDS)

Describes a laboratory-based program in physics designed to help students build effective links between the mathematical equations used to solve problems in mechanics and the real world of moving objects. Conducts the study among senior college students and points out the value of laboratory work in science education for development of thinking…

Focuses on teachers' research in their own classrooms and how teachers make sense of what they see and hear during open-ended technology construction projects. Traces aspects of learning trajectory as a teacher researcher in a year 6 classroom and aspects of improved classroom outcomes. (Contains 41 references.) (Author/YDS)

Reports on the approaches of two classroom science teachers, supported by a research group, to understanding the consequences of a classroom change implemented in response to a perceived problem. Focuses on the consequences of using problem solving tasks for all students. (Author/YDS)

Represents a step in a long journey of learning by a classroom teacher. Begins with a description of teacher research. Considers what causes involvement in teacher research, how teachers can generate knowledge of value, and how teachers can disseminate this knowledge. (Author/YDS)

Focuses on the efforts of a small group of undergraduate engineering students as they explore their perceptions of their learning environment generally, and their approaches to learning in a specific engineering subject. Uses a case study methodology to describe and contextualize the students' work. (Contains 27 references.) (Author/YDS)

Discusses methodology of gender equity studies on noninstructional employees of colleges and universities, including variable selection in the multiple regression model and alternative approaches for measuring wage gaps. Analysis of staff data at one institution finds that experience and market differences account for 80 percent of gender pay…

A survey of 885 public undergraduate institutions examined influences of state characteristics, accreditation emphases, and institutional dynamics on three approaches to student assessment (cognitive, affective, and post-college). Institutional dynamics and accreditation region were found to be the primary influences on all three student…

Presents three mathematical models for the evolution over time of the proportion of minorities in an academic department or similarly selected group of constant size. Analyzes both the steady-state and time-dependent behavior of the proportion of minorities and suggests a method of evaluating the fairness of a department's hiring history.…