Mathematical modelling activities related to everyday situations (e.g., traffic lights) can be used to develop probability concepts. (SD)

This paper discusses the principles underlying discriminant analysis and constructs a simulated data set to illustrate its methods. Discriminant analysis is a multivariate technique for identifying the best combination of variables to maximally discriminate between groups. Discriminant functions are established on existing groups and used to…

The dynamic linear model or Kalman filtering model provides a useful methodology for predicting the past, present, and future states of a dynamic system, such as an object in motion or an economic or social indicator that is changing systematically with time. Recursive likelihood methods for adaptive Kalman filtering and smoothing are developed.…

Two iterative procedures for constructing Rasch scales are presented. A log-likelihood ratio test based on a quasi-loglinear formulation of the Rasch model is given by which one item at a time can be deleted from or added to an initial item set. In the so-called "top-down" algorithm, items are stepwise deleted from a relatively large…

Researchers are now attempting to improve techniques for studying stable behavior patterns in family systems over long periods of time, e.g., the marital dyad across several levels of function and dysfunction covering time periods of months to years. One approach to improving this research design is based on the assumptions that longitudinal…

The problem of spurious significance in multivariate exploratory research is discussed. When a very large number of statistical tests are performed, many tests will be significant on the basis of chance alone. To counter this problem, the use of two sign tests to analyze sets of results has been suggested; the chance expectation [CE test] assesses…

Long-range planning involves the establishment of educational objectives within a rational philosophy, the design of activities and programs to meet stated objectives, the organization and allocation of resources to implement programs, and the analysis of results in terms of the objectives. Current trends of educational growth and complexity…

Simulation is defined and its use, as related to three types of models, iconic, analogue, and symbolic, that may be utilized in educational research is discussed. A five-step procedure is outlined that can be followed in the process of symbolic model construction. Simulation methods, based on these three models, are examined, and illustrations of…

This document dates from 1966 and is thought to be primarily useful in allowing the reader to trace the evolution of this model from its earlier stages to completion. M.E.T.R.O. is a gaming simulation which uses techniques of war gaming as a tool for coping with current and anticipated urban problems. At this stage in its conception, M.E.T.R.O.…

Learning hierarchies are networks of prerequisite relationships of instructional objectives. Seven measures of the validity of learning hierarchies were compared for their ability to identify correctly- and incorrectly-ordered hierarchies. A computer simulation model was used to generate stochastic data of known underlying structure. Analysis of…

Described is the development of a simulation, or model of an existing congested pedestrian crossing situation by elementary school students in order to conduct trials of their solutions. (MN)

Data from the 1970 Brazilian Census are used to explore the effects of parents' investments in their children's education on the pattern of future income distribution and on the intergenerational transmission of inequality, using a simulation model. Appended are 21 references. (Author)

In professional training of librarians, mathematical modeling can be useful in relatively sophisticated library management games if the models simulate the provision and use of library services. (33 references) (MM)

Deciding, with outline maps, what highway exits to use to reach various towns most speedily is the problem presented. The simulation is geometric, focusing on loci. (MNS)

A simple teaching model, designed to show rapidly which are the principal factors in population growth and how they are related, is presented. The apparatus described allows students to play several different active roles. (MP)