Categorical data become increasingly ubiquitous in the modern big data era. In this dissertation, we propose novel statistical learning and inference methods for large-scale categorical data, focusing on latent variable models and their applications to psychometrics. In psychometric assessments, the subjects' underlying aptitude often cannot be…

This article addresses the problem of estimating the proportion Pi[subscript S] of the population belonging to a sensitive group using optional randomized response technique in stratified sampling based on Mangat model that has proportional and Neyman allocation and larger gain in efficiency. Numerically, it is found that the suggested model is…

In 1881, Donald MacAlister posed a problem in the "Educational Times" that remains relevant today. The problem centers on the statistical evidence for the effectiveness of a treatment based on a comparison between two proportions. A brief historical sketch is followed by a discussion of two default Bayesian solutions, one based on a…

This study supported associations between three theoretically driven conceptualizations of racial and ethnic identity (REI; Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure; Multidimensional Racial Identity Measure; Bicultural Identity Measure) and with adaptive functioning among Canadian indigenous adolescents in middle school to high school. Age differences…

Discusses how students generate meanings for mathematical word problems, develops a generative predicational model to account for students' comprehension of word problems, and describes an empirical study of Israeli sixth graders that was designed to test the model. Talk aloud protocols of the students are analyzed, and hypotheses tested are…

In solving a problem, how does the subject single out an intermediate hypothesis? When a sequence of hypotheses does not lead to a solution, how does he revise them? Does he give up the entire sequence? Article considered these problems. (Author/RK)

Presents a model which suggests experiments that may be relevant for some of the real-life problems society currently faces. Extending the generality of the model may provide valuable insights into the underlying processes which facilitate or inhibit the development of cooperative behavior. (Author/RK)

Although partially specified goals are sometimes thought to result from the uncertainties of ill-structured problems, analysis of human problem solving shows that indefinite goals are used in solving problems that are otherwise well structured. The example studied is taken from plane geometry and involves proving that two triangles are congruent.…

A brief review of formative evaluation strategies highlights a number of problems. A model, incorporating an objective thematic and structural analysis technique, is proposed with the aim of removing some of the existing problems. (Editor)

This paper attempted to resolve major methodological and design inadequacies associated with encounter, T-, and sensitivity groups. In addition, it highlighted some issues that have not been sufficiently considered previously. (Author/RK)

In recent years, a strong case has been made by education and health theorists for an allocation of resources aimed at preventing the onset of psychological, social and educational problems among school aged children. Questions the long-term effectiveness of "bandaid" intervention and develops a broader conceptual framework for the delivery of…

Barriers to learning and teaching interfere with students' ability to participate effectively and benefit fully from classroom instruction and other educational activities. For school improvement efforts to succeed in ways that truly improve student achievement and student test scores, systemic changes must be made in how schools provide learning…

This paper examines the topic of systematic curriculum development at the secondary level and discusses the necessary structures and conditions for conducting systematic curriculum development in Barbados. The discussion is organized into three main chapters. Chapter 1 presents a brief overview of the secondary school system in Barbados and…

Attempts to propose a cognitive process model of problem finding, operationally define problem finding, and to present empirical evidence for the proposed model. (Author/RK)

This study develops a three-stage model of the question-answering process and investigates several potential sources of extraneous variability. Discussion includes implications of findings concerning what it means to "use" library materials and services, adverbs used as response category labels, and subject's responses as predictors of…