Chapter 10 – The Use of Research Results in Decision Making in Education by Prof. Nsedu lnyang and Grace Ime Effiong

Abstract
This paper is based on the thesis that research leads to decision making. To effect this, research must he properly managed. The paper states the concept of research management followed by definition of the concept of decision making. Decision making in education is derived from problem solving situations utilizing careful investigation and gathering of data which are analyzed and the results used in decision making. The use of standardized test in educational studies in which the assessment of achievement of learners is of interest is discussed. The construction, administration and analysis of test for standardization utilizing item analysis, reliability estimation and determination of norms are explained. Statistical methods and research situations in which they are use in order to arrive at some decisions have been presented in the paper. The paper ends with a citation of three research studies in Education that leads to decision making. The paper is concluded with a call on individuals and organizations to support researches in Education in particular and other life situations in general as they lead to decisions which affect live in the society. it is also recommended that users of achievement test results in decision making should painstakingly involved themselves in effective management of the production construction and administration of such test for use in making reliable decisions.