Variables Affecting Productivity in Special Education Researchers

Abstract

This study presents the results of a survey of special education researchers on variables that might affect research and publication productivity. The subjects were divided into three groups: low producers, intermediate producers, and high producers. The data were analyzed using the Kruskall-Wallis one-way analysis of ranks and the chi-square test. Statistically significant results were obtained for five variables: teaching load, participation in research during graduate training, sources of support for research, availability of graduate assistants, and attitude toward research. The results are discussed and suggestions offered on how colleges of education might increase the productivity of their faculties.