ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The inadequacy of words to express gratitude to many fine people for continued support in the doctoral program and writing of this dissertation is keenly felt by the writer. Hopefully, they will understand the depth of gratitude that is implied in the acknowledgments.
Dr. William Alexander, an outstanding person, educator and model, was responsible for chairing the writer's program. His guidance and encouragement was the moving force that brought this dissertation and program to fruition.
Dr. Vynce Hines and Father Michael Gannon, two committee members, aided significantly by advice, support, and encouragement. Dr. Hines and Dr. Robert Soar offered suggestions regarding research method and instrumentation. Dick De Novellis, a fellow graduate student, offered invaluable assistance in computing and analyzing the data.
Dr. Gordon Lawrence, director of the Middle School Competencies Project, provided the opportunity to participate in the project and gather data in cooperation with the ongoing research of the program. His cooperation and intense interest were motivating forces.
Dr. William Drummond through interest and consultation
provided the writer with incentive to initiate an experimental
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