This paper examines the properties of the Item Efficiency Index proposed by Neill and Jackson (1976; EJ 137 077) for minimum redundancy item analysis. (Author/BW)

Six statistical methods for identifying possible sources of bias in standardized test items are presented. The relationship between chi-squared methods and item-response theory methods are also discussed. (Author/BW)

Whenever one uses ordinary least squares regression, one is making an implicit assumption that all of the independent variables have been measured without error. Such an assumption is obviously unrealistic for most social data. One approach for estimating such regression models is to measure implied coefficients between latent variables for which…

Linear programing was used to plan the desegregation program of the Seattle (WA) School District. The application described is unique in two respects: (1) its nearest/next nearest school distinction, using geographically coded student files, and (2) its measurement of the compatibility of two alternative legal frameworks for achieving racial…

In this paper, academic efficiency is operationally defined and a methodology for measuring it at the school level is described. Academic efficiency is defined as the extent to which a school utilizes its time for the academic development of all its students. The measure of academic efficiency must include three elements: time, students, and…

Direct and indirect effects in decomposed zero-order correlations among variables in causal models are considered. Under certain circumstances, the components of the decompositions could be interpreted as direct, indirect, and spurious causal effects, plus a component called joint associations. The sum of the direct and indirect effects is the…

The development and testing of a process model of undergraduate student performance and the influence of performance on dropout rates are discussed. An important feature of the model is a feedback loop that represents knowledge of results. A mathematical elaboration of traditional ideas regarding the effect of feedback on performance is included.…

Aside from the theoretical issues involving the validity of inferences from surveys, the basic problem of producinq unbiased estimates of regression parameters and estimates of the associated standard errors has been a particularly difficult issue in dealing with results from stratified multistage sample designs such as the one used in the…

Argues that corporation trainers need to capitalize upon technological innovations to create more efficient and effective training programs, compares training alternatives, and provides models for determining costs for students, instructors, facilities, administration, and instructional development, as well as the total corporate training cost.…

A study was undertaken to develop guidelines for the interpretation of the parameters of three multidimensional item response theory models and to determine the relationship between the parameters and traditional concepts of item difficulty and discrimination. The three models considered were multidimensional extensions of the one-, two-, and…

In all latent trait models there is an equation which describes the probabilistic outcome of the interaction of a person with a known ability and an item with a known difficulty. This modeled outcome can be compared to the observed outcome, and the residuals can be summed over the items to assess the fit of the person to the model. Various…

Examines four areas of difficulty with graphing and modeling, identifies confusions and misconceptions, and shows how these areas interact in the presence of data-collection devices. (KHR)

Quantitative growth curve models for estimating individual developmental functions from various types of longitudinal data are discussed in the context of investigator assumptions and research design characteristics. Linear and nonlinear models that estimate growth curves are illustrated, and contrasted when they are fit to speech development…

The Reliability, Maintainability, and Cost Model (RMCM) described in this report is an interactive mathematical model with a built-in sensitivity analysis capability. It is a major component of the Life Cycle Cost Impact Model (LCCIM), which was developed as part of the DAIS advanced development program to be used to assess the potential impacts…

Examines the problem of aging of books in university libraries and presents a mathematical model of the aging process. Indexes for the aging time limit, over-age book rate, and aging rate are suggested; use of the mean unit price is considered; and countermeasures for control of the aging process are proposed. (four references) (MES)