Social service agencies are facing the same expectations in quality management and outcomes as private companies, compelling staff members and researchers to provide and interpret valid and useful research to stakeholders at all levels in the field. Child welfare agencies are particularly scrutinized. In this textbook, two highly experienced researchers offer the best techniques for conducting sound research in the field. Covering not only the methodological challenges but also the real-li...

Methods in Educational ResearchMethods in Educational Research is designed to prepare students for the real world of educational research. It focuses on scientifically-based methods, school accountability, and the professional demands of the twenty-first century, empowering researchers to take an active role in conducting research in their classrooms, districts, and the greater educational community. Like the first edition, this edition helps students, educators, and researchers de...

Instructional-Design Theories and Models, Volume III: Building a Common Knowledge Base is perhaps best described by its new subtitle. Whereas Volume II sought to comprehensively review the proliferating theories and models of instruction of the 1980’s and 1990’s, Volume III takes on an even more daunting task: starting to build a common knowledge base that underlies and supports the vast array of instructional theories, models and strategies that constitute the field of Instructio...

"How do I create a good research hypothesis?""How do I know when my literature review is finished?""What is the difference between a sample and a population?""What is power and why is it important?"In an increasingly data-driven world, it is more important than ever for students as well as professionals to better understand the process of research. This invaluable guide answers the essential questions that students ask abo...

Criterion-Referenced Test Development is designed specifically for training professionals who need to better understand how to develop criterion-referenced tests (CRTs). This important resource offers step-by-step guidance for how to make and defend Level 2 testing decisions, how to write test questions and performance scales that match jobs, and how to show that those certified as ?masters? are truly masters. A comprehensive guide to the development and use of CRTs, the book prov...

The Instructional Design Knowledge Base: Theory, Research and Practice provides ID professionals and students at all levels with a comprehensive exploration of the theories and research that serve as a foundation for current and emerging ID practice. This book offers both current and classic interpretations of theory from a range of disciplines and approaches. It encompasses general systems, communication, learning, early instructional, media, conditions-based, constructivist desi...

In An Introduction to Psychological Assessment and Psychometrics, Keith Coaley outlines the key ingredients of psychological assessment, providing case studies to illustrate their application, making it an ideal textbook for courses on psychometrics or psychological assessment.New to the Second Edition:Includes occupational and educational settingsCovers ethical and professional issues with a strong practical focus...

ìThis guide is direct and practical. You will find out exactly where you are weakest in knowledge so that your studying can be most directed. I exceeded the NASP passing score AND the national average on my first try at the praxis 400 exam-- using this book as my 'Bible' (and I am "only" a Specialist level sch. psych).îì[I] used this book and passed with a 720. [I]t's straightforward, and the practice test was useful -- recognized several questions on the actual exam from the pract...

Situational Judgment Tests advances the science and practice of SJTs by promoting a theoretical framework, providing an understanding of best practices, and establishing a research agenda for years to come. Currently, there is no other source that provides such a comprehensive treatment of situational judgment testing.Key features of this book include:chapters rich with theoretical insights and future research possibilities;numerous implications for...

This book helps readers apply testing and measurement theories. Featuring 22 self-standing modules, instructors can pick and choose the ones that are most appropriate for their course. Each module features an overview of a measurement issue and a step-by-step application of that theory. Best practices provide recommendations for ensuring the appropriate application of the theory. Practical questions help students assess their understanding of the topic while the examples ...

"Accurate, clearly written, and easy to understand even for the beginning researcher, with equal coverage of both qualitative and quantitative research. This is the only book to combine a textbook approach with a how-to approach."—Carol Roberts, Professor, University of La VerneAuthor, The Dissertation Journey"This is a very practical book and will be immediately usable for graduate students at any stage in their research. The multitude of exampl...

This is an beginning book on statistics and research. It could be used by undergraduate students and graduate students alike. The book covers several methods of research including correlational and experimental methods. Rudiments of descriptive statistics and inferential statistics are also presented.