Critique de Choice
A combination handbook, directory, and annotated bibliography, this desk reference displays both strengths and limitations inherent in such a format. Intended as a general starting point for educational researchers in all disciplines, it satisfies many of their most common information needs by posing reference questions and citing sources potentially answering them. Yet it neglects questions less frequently asked but still important. The book is intended for professional educators whose research skills are rusty, neophyte faculty in search of publishers, and advanced graduate students. Sections include descriptions of standardized tests and test publishers; book, journal, and software publishers' manuscript guidelines; and standard reference sources. The sections do not attempt comprehensive coverage. The strongest chapters summarize textbook material on research methodolgy and research designs. There are also useful descriptions of statistical and nonstatistical packages for microcomputers. Users should have an advanced background in library and field research techniques. The index is inadequate. The book will find a place on educators' desks, but its generally superficial treatment of the material makes it a marginal purchase for academic libraries. -C. B. Thurston, University of Texas at San Antonio
Critique du Library Journal
Combining elements of DataMap , the Encyclopedia of Associations , the Mental Measurements Yearbook , and various guides to education sources, The Educator's Desk Reference (EDR), like the similarly named Physicians' Desk Reference, is intended to be a one-stop source of educational information. Its six sections include information sources, an author's guide, microcomputer software, standardized tests, research processes, and educational organizations. The first of these adds an innovative ``information locator'' to the more conventional list of reference sources. Ninety-four major journals are profiled in the second section, with notes for potential contributors. Additional author assistance is given in lengthy lists of book and microcomputer software publishers. Both statistical and nonstatistical packages are described in the software section. Virtually all major standardized tests from achievement to intelligence are covered in the testing section. Research designs, statistical procedures, and sampling techniques are highlighted in research processes. The final section gives lengthy descriptions of 82 educational organizations. An index provides easy subject and title access. Written by a former university vice president, Freed, and two professors of education, Robert K. Hess and Joseph M. Ryan, this outstanding reference source promises a lot and delivers. It should prove useful to a wide audience of professional educators, students, and librarians.-- Brian E. Coutts, Western Kentucky Univ. Libs., Bowling Green (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
