When a correlation is taken in a sample in which the range of the variables being correlated is limited, it is often desired to apply the correlation to groups with different ranges for the variables. In such situations, a correction for restriction of range (more precisely, restriction of standard deviation) may be necessary. Considered in this…

This paper briefly summarizes the characteristics of 14 of the currently most popular computer pragrams for cluster analysis. Also provided is a subjective ranking of the programs in terms of their versatility and usability. (Author)

Critical to precise quantitative research is reliability estimation. Researchers have limited tools, however, to assess the reliability of evolving instruments. Consequently, cursory assessment is typical and in-depth evaluation is rare. This paper presents a rationale for and description of PIAS, a computerized instrument analysis system. PIAS…

A method of introducing a controlled degree of skew and kurtosis for Monte Carlo studies was derived. The form of such a transformation on normal deviates is given. Analytic and empirical validation of the method is demonstrated. (Author/JKS)

The Fisher Exact Probability Test considers independent groups and dichotomous criterion in a 2 by 2 (fourfold) contingency table. Fisher's test requires a determination of the combined probability of the observed frequency distribution and of the more extreme (in the same direction) frequency distributions. Typically, Fisher's test is for a small…

There are good reasons for the growing popularity of Monte Carlo procedures; but with increasing use comes increasing misuse. A variety of exact and approximate alternatives should be considered before one chooses to approach a problem with Monte Carlo methods. Once it has been decided that simulation is desirable, consideration should be given to…

Part and bi-partial canonical correlations were developed by extending the definitions of part and bi-partial correlation to sets of variates. These coefficients may be used to help researchers explore relationships which exist among several sets of normally distributed variates. (Author)

For two tests measuring the same trait, the program, BIV20, equates the scores using the two True score distributions estimated by the univariate method 20 program (see Wingersky, Lees, Lennon, and Lord, 1969) and, with these equated true scores and their distributions, estimates the bivariate distribution scores and the relative efficiency of the…

Compares segmentation solutions obtained using a binary segmentation algorithm (THAID) and a new chi-square-based procedure (CHAID) that segments the prospective pool of college applicants using application and matriculation as criteria. Results showed a higher number of estimated qualified inquiries and more accurate estimates with CHAID. (JAC)

Factor analysis in several populations, covariance structure models, three-mode factor analysis, structural equations systems with measurement model, and analysis of covariance with measurement model are all shown to be specializations of a general moment structure model. Some new structured linear models are also described. (Author/CTM)

Some aspects of the small sample behavior of maximum likelihood estimates in multidimensional scaling are investigated with Monte Carlo techniques. In particular, the chi square test for dimensionality is examined and a correction for bias is proposed and evaluated. (Author/JKS)

Through Monte Carlo procedures, three different techniques for estimating the parameter theta (proportion of the "shocks" remaining in the system) in the Integrated Moving Average (0,1,1) time-series model are compared in terms of (1) the accuracy of the estimates, (2) the independence of the estimates from the true value of theta, and…

The effect of stratified sampling of items on the estimation of test score distribution parameters by multiple matrix sampling was studied. Item difficulty and/or interitem correlations were the bases of stratification. Various item iniverses were created by computer simulation and sampled according to several plans. The results indicate that…

A method is developed for testing a priori multiple regression models. The method allows one to specify in advance as many unstandardized or standardized coefficients as one wants to and allows the remaining slopes to be free to vary. (Author/PN)

The objective of this program was to develop candidate pilot performance measures for five undergraduate pilot training (UPT) contact training maneuvers flown in the T-37B aircraft. The work included development and application of a method of analyzing operator performance tasks for purposes of identifying candidate measures. This resulted in…