Matching, randomization, random sampling, and other methods of controlling extraneous variation are discussed. The purpose was to specify the benefits of randomization in estimating causal effects of treatments. It is concluded that randomization should be employed whenever possible, but the use of carefully controlled nonrandomized data to…

This study analyzes survey data on 7,200 students from 39 varied elementary, middle, and high schools to examine the hypotheses that (1) satisfaction with school should be most responsive to changes in school practices that affect the social structure, (2) commitment to classwork should relate most to changes in the task structure, and (3)…

A model of Brownian motion is discussed which includes viscosity effects. The model lends itself to Monte Carlo simulation and thus is suitable for an elementary physics laboratory experiment. (BB)

Presents a model explaining voter behavior in educational tax rate referenda, arguing that increasing rejection of these referenda is explained by a narrowing gap between actual school expenditures and the level of expenditures voters regard as optimal. (JG)

Presents a conceptual framework for analyzing academic achievement and learning in light of school differences. Findings do not support the prevailing belief among sociologists of education, teachers, and parents that school differences are closely related to academic achievement. Additional research is suggested. (Author/DB)

Based on a microeconometric examination of Philadelphia school district data, analyzes the impact on student achievement of pupil-specific variation in students' genetic endowment and socioeconomic status, teacher quality, nonteacher school quality, and peer group characteristics. Single copies may be purchased from Secretary, C. Elton Hinshaw,…

The article reviews statistical and psychometric issues associated with the severe discrepancy definition of learning disabilities used in Public Law 94-142. It is proposed that these issues should not drive the psychological theory of learning disabilities and should be replaced by constructs firmly grounded in psychological theories of learning.…

Data from the National Research Council's Doctorate Records File extract prepared for UCLA indicated that source of support was the most important variable in predicting time to doctorate. Following source of support were postdoctoral plans, number of dependents, sex, and field of study. (Author/MLW)

The results of this issue's series of articles are summarized, and implications for theory, research, and practice are discussed. Initial academic achievement was the strongest predictor of student achievement. The impact of attentiveness, motivation, student background, sex, and time on task were also described. (GDC)

Using alternative models, wage and job competition predict different outcomes for an exogenous increase in supplies of educated labor. Regression studies based on the models account for very little variability in wages of new labor market entrants in 1966-1976. (Author/MSE)

ifferent evaluation models were applied to data from a high school career education program to investigate problems in statistical conclusion validity and program effectiveness judgments. If potential threats to internal validity are analyzed and protection strategies are developed, more confidence in unplanned ex post facto design using a…

In an age of student accountability, public school systems must find procedures for identifying effective schools, classrooms, and teachers that help students continue to learn academically. As a result, researchers have been modeling schools and classrooms to calculate productivity indicators that will withstand not only statistical review but…

Presents the results of a study conducted to determine the allocation of general revenue sharing funds to libraries from 1973 through 1977 and to estimate the impact of these funds on library budgets around the country. Data are summarized in 6 tables and a reference list is included. (Author/JL)

Studies revision skills of grades 5-6 students asked to improve expository text written by other students by giving explicit evaluations, diagnoses, and suggestions. Supplements quantitative data with qualitative analysis of revision activities. Specifies in the model important cognitive steps in revision: compare, diagnose, and operate. Concludes…

Examines a pattern of end-of-word deletion in Faetar, a Francoprovencal dialect spoken in southern Italy, and considers synchronic variants. The article uses the word "deletion" as a synchronic description of the fact that speakers do not always phonetically produce everything in the input form. Optimality Theory accounts for such…