Download or read book Puzzles and Pieces in Wonderland written by Karl J. Beeler and published by . This book was released on 1991 with total page 168 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This monograph considers student affairs research, providing an overview of research issues; a practical guide to conducting and teaching about research; and a critique of current research assumptions, methods, and practices. "The Promise of Student Affairs Research" (Karl Beeler and Deborah Ellen Hunter) uses "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" as a metaphorical starting point for describing the campus environment, introduces ways to view research as a practical tool, and argues for research based on student characteristics at the individual campus level. "In Search of the Lost Chord: Applying Research to Planning and Decision Making" (Larry Benedict) lists reasons cited for failing to conduct research in student affairs and shows that research need not be expensive or time consuming. "Of Puzzles and Pieces: Organizing and Directing a Campus-Based Research Agenda" (William Weitzer and Gary Malaney) describes a simple four-step process for planning the design of research projects. "Rethinking Research in Student Affairs" (George Kuh) presses the profession to move forward in its thinking about what constitutes useful knowledge. "The Call to Assessment: What Role for Student Affairs?" (Gary Hanson) provides an overview of assessment issues in higher education and student affairs. "Peering Through the 'Looking Glass' at Preparation Needed for Student Affairs Research" (Deborah Ellen Hunter and Karl Beeler) discusses how student affairs professionals can be motivated and taught the skills for competency in research. "Student Affairs Research on Trial" (Robert Brown) passes judgment on the profession as a producer and user of research. (NB)