Traditionally, confirmatory factor analytic models are tested against a null model of total independence. Using randomly generated factors in a matrix of 46 aptitude tests, this approach is shown to be unlikely to reject even random factors. An alternative null model, based on a single general factor, is suggested. In addition, an index of model…

This monograph contains the third section, operations at the factor level, of a report of studies done in Helsinki, Finland, describing school achievement in terms of ability, trait, situational, and background variables. The report (1) investigates the structure of school achievement, (2) describes school achievement in terms of selected…

Three topics in factor analysis are covered: a) a reliability coefficient for assessing the quality of a maximum likelihood factor analysis, b) an application of three-mode factor analysis to serial learning data, showing variations in learning curves over stages of learning and individuals, and c) the use of personal probability functions to…

This paper is concerned with the study of similarities and differences in factor structures between different groups. A common situation is when a battery of tests has been administered to samples of examinees from several populations. A very general model is presented, in which any parameter in the factor analysis models (factor loadings, factor…

A modification index is presented to aid in reformulating hypothetical models rejected after analysis of empirical data. This index is an improvement over the one in the LISREL V computer program in that it takes into account changes in all parameters of the model when one parameter is freed. (SLD)

In two studies, Study 1 and Study 2, we examine whether attitudes toward people with intellectual disabilities, like sexism and racism, consist of two forms--a classical and a modern, where the classical is overt and blatant and the modern is more subtle and covert. Self-report scales tapping these two forms were developed in Study 1. Based on…

Spearman's hypothesis states that the differences between Blacks and Whites in psychometric IQ are attributable to a fundamental difference in general intelligence ("g"). To investigate this hypothesis, Jensen devised the method of correlated vectors. This method involves calculating the correlation between the factor loadings of the…

Two Chinese samples of the high school students (N=721) and the college students (N=943) were administered a translated version of the Personal Globe Inventory (PGI, Tracey, 2002), and the responses were examined with respect to their structure. Results of separate factor analyses demonstrated that there were three substantive factors:…

A common problem in the behavioral sciences is to determine if a set of observed variables can be more parsimoniously represented by a smaller set of derived variables. To address this problem, the performance of five methods for determining the number of components to retain (Horn's parallel analysis, Velicer's Minimum Average Partial (MAP),…

Results support Sherman's hypothesis that sex differences in tests of field independence, such as Witkin's Rod-and-Frame Test and Embedded Figures Tests, are artifacts of the well-known sex differences in space perception and are therefore not evidence that females are less analytical than males. (Author/BJG)

The logical structure of the Campbell and Fiske multitrait-multimethod approach is applied to the problem of studying growth and its determinants. The resulting model is a special case of Joreskog's general model for the analysis of covariance structures. The relationships of traditional psychometric formulations to this model are detailed.…

The Monte Carlo method was used, and the factors considered were (1) level of main effects in the population; (2) level of interaction effects in the population; (3) alpha level used in determining whether to pool; and (4) number of degrees of freedom. The results indicated that when the ratio degrees of freedom (axb)/degrees of freedom (within)…

A multitrait-multimethod matrix containing two methods of measuring 12 personality traits was analyzed and confirmatory factor analysis was applied to the data. Although unexplained variance remained, method factors and a general personality factor significantly improved the fit of a model containing only trait factors. (Author/RL)

Many statistics educators believe that few students develop the level of conceptual understanding essential for them to apply correctly the statistical techniques at their disposal and to interpret their outcomes appropriately. It is also commonly believed that the sampling distribution plays an important role in developing this understanding.…

e-Learning, of late, has been witnessing an unprecedented expansion as an opportunity for higher education. This expanding alternative mode calls for ensuring and imparting a sound and qualitative education. The present study made an attempt to investigate the issues related to the quality dimensions of e-learning. Our results revealed the…