The purpose of this study was to explore the degree of grain size of the attributes and the sample sizes that can support accurate parameter recovery with the General Diagnostic Model (GDM) for a large-scale international assessment. In this resampling study, bootstrap samples were obtained from the 2003 Grade 8 TIMSS in Mathematics at varying…

The influence of sample size (N) and model parsimony on a set of 22 goodness of fit indices was investigated, including those typically used in confirmatory factor analysis and some recently developed indices. For sample data simulated from 2 known population data structures, values for 6 of 22 fit indices were reasonably independent of N and were…

In the last decade, several attempts have been made to relate item response theory (IRT) models to latent class analysis (LCA) models. One of these attempts is the solution-error response-error (SERS) model, an LCA model in which the structure of the latent class probabilities is explained by a one-dimensional loglinear Rasch model. In this paper,…

The multitrait-multimethod (MTMM) paradigm is used widely to assess construct validity, but D. A. Kenny and D. A. Kashy (1992) lament that even after 30 years we still do not know how to analyze MTMM data. The Composite Direct Product (CDP) model has recently attracted considerable attention. Its strengths and weaknesses are evaluated, and a…

Based on the concept of a mathematical manifold, the model developed for this study was designed to measure and provide insights into the interaction of gender and access to computers among Canadian adolescents, as well as the multiple situational and personal variables which can constrain or facilitate computer access for the adolescent. The…

Two models of library circulation, the Markov model and the mixed Poisson Model, are applied to circulation statistics from the University of Saskatchewan. Goodness-of-fit tests indicate that neither model fits the data; in both cases, the set of noncirculating items is larger than that predicted by the model. (Author/LRW)

This study investigates whether or not the factor structure of reading comprehension is invariant across large, nationally representative samples of 14-year-old students from four different countries. The data from French-speaking Belgium, Hungary, Italy, and the United States were collected as part of the Reading Literacy Study of 1990-91,…

A multi-faceted model for the selection of answers for multiple-choice tests was developed from the findings of a series of exploratory studies. This model implies that answer selection should be curvilinear. A series of models were tested for fit using the chi square procedure. Data were collected from 359 elementary school students ages 9-12.…

The Lisrel-model with structured means was used to study similarities and differences in the development of mathematical ability between two student groups as measured by two tests on three successive occasions. Procedures for testing models to assess the contribution on an individual parameter to the goodness of fit are described. (Author/BS)

The Rasch simple logistic model is used to examine the relative item parameter values of a personality inventory with respect to populations cross-classified by sex and country. While items conform to the model within each of the populations, half the items show significant discrepancies among the populations. (Author/RL)

Data on 2,380 searches of online information retrieval systems are analyzed using a mathematical model to determine the relationship between two measures of effectiveness--documents read and relevant references. The nature and relative merits of these two variables are discussed, as well as the findings, and seven references are listed. (RBF)

Mokken models of monotone homogeneity and double monotonicity and the Rasch model are compared using data from 990 young adult examinees taking a Dutch verbal intelligence test--the Verbal Analogies Test. The model of monotone homogeneity was found suitable for basic testing; more sophisticated applications appear to require parametric models.…

This paper evaluates empirically the impact of elementary school related factors on the academic achievement of Montreal francophone children. A three-equation model explains simultaneously the level of achievement in mathematics and French and the self-concept of the students in the sample. (Author/LMO)

A new model is presented that explains reaction time fluctuations in prolonged work tasks. The model extends the so-called Poisson-Erlang model and accounts for long-term trend effects in the reaction time curve. The model is consistent with Spearman's hypothesis that inhibition increases during work and decreases during rest. (TJH)

This paper outlines the development of a quantitative instrument designed to measure students' multiple achievement goals and key aspects of their cognitive engagement in Australian educational settings. The paper demonstrates the use of congeneric measurement models in assessing and improving the validity of the scales comprising the Goal…