The write stuff: A study of productive scholars in educational administration

This study explored differences between a sample of highly productive schol ars and a random sample of more typical scholars. Surprisingly, few demogra phic differences emerged; neither were large differences found in instituti onal responsibilities or supports. Productive scholars evidenced a greater orientation toward theory and research, whereas more typical scholars were oriented toward issues in the field. Although the field has made substantia l progress in attracting more women into the professorship, the small numbe r of minority professors in educational administration remains a serious pr oblem. Finally, five challenges are proposed that, if met,,will improve the quality and use of research in educational administration.