This paper presents the generalized symmetric means approach to the estimation of population covariances, complete with derivations and examples. Particular attention is paid to the problem of missing data, which is handled very naturally in the incidence sampling framework. (CTM)

This paper describes an exact small sample test, and provides a table of critical values for an approximate large sample test, to determine if a sample of Likert-Type ratings indicates significant agreement or disagreement in a population of such ratings. (Author)

Demonstrates the use of a general model for latent variable growth analysis that takes into account cluster sampling. Multilevel Latent Growth Modeling was used to analyze longitudinal and multilevel data for adolescent and parent substance use measured at four annual time points for 435 families. (SLD)

Practical significance is concerned with whether a research result is useful in the real world. The use of procedures to supplement the null hypothesis significance test in four journals of the American Psychological Association is examined, and an approach to assessing practical significance is presented. (SLD)

Presents findings of extensive investigation (n=70) into interactive and discourse styles of a nationally representative sample of primary teachers. Explores impact of official endorsement of interactive whole class teaching in the teaching of England's National Literacy Strategy to examine whether it is promoting pupils' higher interaction and…

Studied perceptions and recommendations from 62 survey researchers about the use of electronic surveys. Reduction of costs, usefulness for prenotification and followup, and comparability with existing software were the most positive aspects cited. Limitations identified included sampling problems and confidentiality and privacy problems. (SLD)

It is contended that this book's conceptually rigorous and complete treatment of meta-analysis is written with the consumer in mind. Some of the models presented are not appropriate for studies that meta-analyses commonly consider. Sampling issues are not covered adequately, and much of the supporting theory is omitted. (SLD)

Two independent replications of a sequence of simulations were conducted to aid in the diagnosis and interpretation of equating differences found between representative (random) and matched (nonrandom) samples for three commonly used conventional observed-score equating procedures and one item-response-theory-based equating procedure. (SLD)

The accuracy was assessed of a method for estimating unrestricted univariate predictor means and variances from sample data for three populations in two personnel selection contexts. The first context was characterized by direct non-strict truncation and the second was characterized by direct strict truncation on the predictor. (TJH)

After reviewing the multiple fit indices in structural equation models, evidence on their behavior is presented through simulation studies in which sample size, estimation method, and model misspecification varied. Two sampling studies, with and without known populations, are presented, and implications for the use of fit indices are discussed.…

Explores how to achieve rigor in applying methodology to research questions regarding quantitative approaches, specifically regarding statistical analysis, measurement, and sample decisions. (SR)

Responds to Biskin's comments (this issue) on the significance test controversy. Highlights areas of agreement (importance of replication evidence, importance of effect sizes) and disagreement (influence of sample size, evaluation of populations vs. samples, significance of Carver's article). Includes further recommendations for reporting research…

A "fact sheet" is defined as a single two-sided sheet (or one-page folded brochure) that briefly describes all major aspects of a scientific survey or poll in nontechnical terms. A fact sheet can be used to plan all phases of a survey, from clarifying purpose, to distributing results. A fact sheet may be used as a communication tool in…

Discussion of supplemental speech sampling for in-depth phonological analysis in the assessment of children with phonological disorders focuses on how to evaluate a given word list in terms of a set of criteria for a detailed phonological analysis. Suggestions are provided for sample supplementation for two frequent areas of difficulty. (Contains…

Reviews general approaches to job analysis and considers methodological issues related to sampling and the development of rating scales used to measure and describe a profession or occupation. Evaluates the usefulness of different types of test plans and describes judgmental and empirical methods for using practice analysis data to help develop…