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Subject descriptions and single-subject research
1Child and Family Studies, Allegheny-Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.
Journal of Learning Disabilities
|December 1, 1993
Summary
This study examines minimum standards for describing research subjects in learning disability research. It recommends detailing performance-controlling variables, selection criteria, and status variables for better research replication.
Area of Science:
- Education
- Psychology
- Special Education
Background:
- The Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD) Research Committee proposed minimum standards for describing research subjects.
- The need for clear subject descriptions is crucial for the validity and replicability of research findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the proposed minimum standards for describing research subjects.
- To investigate the justification, impact on replication, and applicability of these standards across different research types.
Main Methods:
- A critical review and discussion of the proposed CLD standards for subject description.
- Analysis of the relationship between subject description detail and research replication probability.
Main Results:
- Questions are raised regarding the justification for the CLD's recommended standards.
- The link between subject description and research replication is explored.
- The necessity of uniform standards for all research types is questioned.
Conclusions:
- Investigators using single-subject research designs should describe variables controlling performance and context.
- Clear identification of subject selection criteria is essential.
- Reporting status variables, as per CLD recommendations, is advised for enhanced research transparency.
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