Nonlinear latent variable models are specified that include quadratic forms and interactions of latent regressor variable as special cases. To estimate the parameters, the models are put in a Bayesian framework with conjugate priors for the parameters. The proposed estimation methods are illustrated by two simulation studies. (SLD)

Illustrates the design and planning of Monte Carlo simulations, presenting nine steps in planning and performing a Monte Carlo analysis from developing a theoretically derived question of interest through summarizing the results. Uses a Monte Carlo simulation to illustrate many of the relevant points. (SLD)

Assessed two models for confirmatory factor analysis of multitrait-multimethod data through Monte Carlo simulation. The correlated traits-correlated methods (CTCM) and the correlated traits-correlated uniqueness (CTCU) models were compared. Results suggest that CTCU is a good alternative to CTCM in the typical multitrait-multimethod matrix, but…

Describes a method to teach introductory astronomy students about the phases of the moon. Uses video techniques to aid students in developing the skill of visualizing the same phenomenon from different frames of reference. (JRH)

Presents a lecture and play in which the students themselves become the elements of the immune system. Aims at facilitating student comprehension and retention of the complicated processes associated with the immune system. Includes objectives, outline, background information sources, instructor guide, student narrator guide, extension, and topics…

Studied a method for flagging differential item functioning (DIF) based on loss functions. Builds on earlier research that led to the development of an empirical Bayes enhancement to the Mantel-Haenszel DIF analysis. Tested the method through simulation and found its performance better than some commonly used DIF classification systems. (SLD)

This research reports findings from field observations of debriefing sessions following organizational operations in interactive simulation systems. Focuses on the relationship of different debriefing session techniques to identification of potential organizational learning opportunities to improve performance. (Author/LRW)

Proposed person-fit statistics that are designed for use in a computerized adaptive test (CAT) and derived critical values for these statistics using cumulative sum (CUSUM) procedures so that item-score patterns can be classified as fitting or misfitting. Compared nominal Type I errors with empirical Type I errors through simulation studies. (SLD)

Used Monte Carlo methods to evaluate the adequacy of cluster analysis to recover group membership based on simulated latent growth curve (LCG) models. Cluster analysis failed to recover growth subtypes adequately when the difference between growth curves was shape only. Discusses circumstances under which it was more successful. (SLD)

Points out two concerns with recent research by F. Li and others (2000) and T. Duncan and others (1999) that extended the structural equation model of latent interactions developed by K. Joreskog and F. Yang (1996) to latent growth modeling. Used mathematical derivation and a comparison of alternative models fitted to simulated data to develop a…

Studied two procedures for detecting potentially flawed items in translated tests with small samples: (1) conditional item "p" value comparisons; and (2) delta plots. Varied several factors in this simulation study. Findings show that the two procedures can be valuable in identifying flawed test items, especially when the size of the…

Compared the analysis of variance (ANOVA) "F" and several nonparametric competitors for two-way designs for empirical alpha and power through simulation. Results suggest the ANOVA "F" suffers from conservative alpha and power for the mixed normal distribution, but is generally recommended. (Author/SLD)

Studied the effect on criterion-related validity of nonfitting response vectors (NRVs) on a predictor test using simulation. Results suggest that NRVs can influence the validity of a test if the type of misfit is severe, the correlation between the predictor and criterion scores is "p"=0.3 or 0.4, and there are 15% or higher NRVs. (SLD)

Presents a variable selection heuristic for nonhierarchical (K-means) cluster analysis based on the adjusted Rand index for measuring cluster recovery. Subjected the heuristic to Monte Carlo testing across more than 2,200 datasets. Results indicate that the heuristic is extremely effective at eliminating masking variables. (SLD)

Describes a class of rater effects, differential rater functioning over time (DRIFT), that depicts rater-by-time interactions. Also describes Rasch measurement procedures designed to identify these types of DRIFT in rating data. Applied these procedures to simulated data to show their usefulness in classifying raters as aberrant or non-aberrant…