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)

In maximum likelihood factor analysis, there arises a situation whereby improper solutions occur. The causes of those improper solution are discussed and illustrated. (JKS)

Estimation is by means of iterative convergence to maximum likelihood estimates, and two approaches to assessing fit of the model to sample data are discussed. Relation of this general probabilistic model to other, more restricted models is explored and three cases of the general model are applied to exemplary data. (Author/RC)

A study was conducted to compare the quality of the item parameter estimates obtained from the ANCILLES and LOGIST estimation procedures using goodness of fit as a criterion. Statistics used to compare the fit included a chi-square statistic and a mean square deviation statistic. Other analyses performed included comparisons of the distributions…

Latent trait theory supposes that, in testing situations, examinee performance on a test can be predicted (or explained) by defining examinee characteristics, referred to as traits, estimating scores for examinees on these traits and using the scores to predict or explain test performance (Lord and Novick, 1968). In view of the breakthroughs in…