Characteristics of 50 Years of Research Samples Found in the Journal of Research in Music Education , 1953–2002

The purpose of this study was to investigate and identify specific characteristics and frequencies of subject samples as found in the Journal of Research in Music Education from its inception in 1953 through the final issue of 2002. Seven research questions were analyzed with respect to research samples used during the past 50 years. Samples were analyzed in the following categories: school level (elementary, secondary, or college/university); grade in school; major in college/university; public school personnel; college/university personnel; public at large; and geographic location. Results indicated that 34 % of subject samples during the past 50 years have been drawn from college/university settings; 21 % of subject samples have been from elementary school settings; and 19% of subject samples have been drawn from secondary school settings. Gender- and race-specific samples are analyzed in this study, as were research samples by state and geographic location. Conclusions and implications for future research are discussed.