Practical problems with multilevel techniques are discussed. These problems relate to terminology, computer programs employing different algorithms, and interpretations of the coefficients in either one or two steps. The usefulness of hierarchical linear models (HLMs) in common situations in educational research is explored. While elegant, HLMs…

In order to estimate the classical coefficient of test reliability, parallel measurements are needed. H. Gulliksen's matched random subtests method, which is a graphical method for splitting a test into parallel test halves, has practical relevance because it maximizes the alpha coefficient as a lower bound of the classical test reliability…

This description of the Structure-Mapping Engine (SME), a flexible, cognitive simulation program for studying analogical processing which is based on Gentner's Structure-Mapping theory of analogy, points out that the SME provides a "tool kit" for constructing matching algorithms consistent with this theory. This report provides: (1) a…

Presents algorithms for the simulation and motion display of the three basic kinematic devices: (1) four bar linkages; (2) the slider crank; and (3) the inverted slider crank mechanisms. The algorithms were implemented on a Commodore-VIC 20 microcomputer system with 6500 bytes of available memory. (Author/JN)

Two worksheets are given, outlining algorithms to help students determine the day of the week an event will occur and to find the date for Easter. The activity provides computational practice. A computer program for determining Easter is also included. (MNS)

Describes two computer programs--INDEX and INDEXD--that use statistical information about repeated phrases in documents to automatically index documents at the conceptual level. Sample output of the programs is provided, and plans to combine this method with linguistic and artificial intelligence techniques to provide a general conceptual…

Discusses the interpretation of nominal compounds in the context of natural language processing for information retrieval. Knowledge-intensive algorithms that can successfully interpret compounds found in technical documents are described, and experiments are reported that indicate these algorithms may be unnecessary for improving retrieval…

Describes the algorithm used to select a simple random sample of certain size without having to list all possible samples and a justification based on Pascal's triangle. Provides testing results by various computers. (YP)

The process of developing a computer program that can turn French text into speech is described. The program is designed to change a conventionally-spelled text into a phonemic transcription with an accuracy level of over 99.9%, divide the text into breath-groups that are syntactically correct and not over 14 syllables long, treat the unstable…

Presents methodological considerations in developing an automatic cheap algorithm for computerized path diagraming, gives some plotted results, and describes a program which produces the plots from an input matrix of path coefficients on a standard line printer. The program accommodates unidirectional and reciprocal causation and represents…

Discusses issues involved in obtaining patents for computer software. Topics discussed include copyright protection; algorithms and other software processes within programs; the software industry and the effects of patenting; perspectives on software patents within higher education; cost factors; and the use of patents to control information…

A detailed analysis and computer-based solution to a puzzle addressing the arrangement of dominoes on a grid is presented. The problem is one used in a college-level data structures or algorithms course. The solution uses backtracking to generate all possible answers. Details of the use of backtracking and techniques for mapping abstract problems…

Ways to combine the strengths of teacher and computer are suggested. Multiplication concepts and an algorithm for multiplication are taught in the same lessons. The computer is used as an electronic chalkboard to teach at a semiconcrete level. The computer program is included. (MNS)

A serious drawback in introducing sound into computer programs for teaching foreign language speech has been the lack of an algorithm to turn off the cassette recorder immediately to keep screen text and audio in synchronization. This article describes a program which solves that problem. (SED)

Considers possibility of developing a computer tutor around an explicit concept-learning theory derived from machine learning techniques. Some problems with using the focusing (and similar) algorithms in this role are discussed and possible solutions are developed. Design for a guided discovery learning system for tutoring concepts is proposed.…