The focus of this text is placed on designing General Linear Models (regression models) to test research hypotheses. The authors illustrate and discuss General Linear Models specifically designed to statistically test research hypotheses that deal with the differences among group means, relationships between continuous variables, analysis of covariance, interaction effects, nonlinear relationships, and repeated measures. Many of the chapters contain sections entitled "General Hypothesis" and "Applied Hypothesis." The General Hypothesis sections are designed to provide the readers with "road maps" regarding how to conduct the various analyses presented in the text. The Applied Hypothesis sections illustrate how the various analyses are conducted with Microsoft Excel and SPSS for Windows and how the outputs should be interpreted to test the hypotheses. Throughout the text, the authors stress the importance of designing regression models that precisely reflect the null and research hypotheses.

The purpose of this book is to improve the direction and utility of the evaluation by program directors in charge, and the implementation of the evaluation by the evaluator. The authors contend that both of these goals can best be met by understanding each individual role. How to be Involved in Program Evaluation: * Provides a framework for understanding evaluation and the value of working within an evaluation model * Provides an overview of the General Evaluation Model (GEM) * Reviews the components of GEM from the viewpoint of the Evaluator and the Program Director-to emphasize the joint effort of the two persons * Presents aspects of evaluation as a profession, including standards developed by professional organizations, desired traits of the Evaluator, and advantages and disadvantages of the Evaluator coming from outside the organization as compared to inside the organization * Discusses the need for data collection instruments, and presents various examples, along with the advantages and disadvantages of the various evaluation instruments * Discusses the crucial role of reporting evaluation results * Discusses how the General Evaluation Model can be used to evaluate an entire school This book will be a valuable reference to program directors and evaluators.

Conducting Survey Research in the Social Sciences presents basic concepts and general guidelines for those who are interested in conducting a survey by breaking the process down into eight steps and twenty-three questions. It outlines the appropriate sequential steps necessary to help the reader initiate and develop a survey. Following each of the eight steps as depicted in the eight chapters and answering the questions provided enables the creation of an effective survey. The authors also include three fictitious vignettes to illustrate how the decisions should be made, and how proper survey research should be conducted to meet many different needs.

This practical volume is designed to assist graduate students in planning, conducting, and writing theses or dissertations in the social and physical sciences. Numerous examples are provided and many tips are included to facilitate completion of the thesis or dissertation.