Measures of variability are successfully used in predictive modeling in research areas outside of education. This study examined how standard deviations can be used to address research questions not easily addressed using traditional measures such as group means based on index variables. Student survey data were obtained from the Organisation for…

Critically examining common statistical approaches and their strengths and weaknesses is an important step in advancing recreation and leisure sciences. To continue this critical examination and to inform methodological decision making, this study compared three approaches to determine how alternative approaches may result in contradictory…

The generation of empirically-based equations is within the grasp of most researchers in occupational education. This paper was designed to develop a sensitivity to the need for cross-validation in these circumstances. Program CROSVAL is a means of bridging the gap between the need for, and mechanization of, cross validation. (Author/DS)

This study compared two subgroups of trade and technical teachers to determine whether or not any biographical differences existed. (Author/GB)

Factorial modeling is justified as a method for analyzing correlations in support of causal inference. The method is illustrated and compared to path analysis, LISREL-type analysis, canonical correlation, and commonality analysis. Predictions of impacts of policy manipulations are demonstrated. (Author/CP)

This paper presents a discussion of the use of educational tests in guidance services as seen in the light of modern developments in statistical theory and computer technology, and of the increasing demands for such services. A focus and vocabulary for this discussion is found in Turnbull's recent article on "Relevance in Testing." Following an…

Since problems associated with the statistical methodology of educational research are becoming increasingly important, this paper examines a subset of problems associated with the analysis and interpretation of aggregated data. Two major questions arise: (1) if a researcher knows the level (e.g., individual, teacher/classroom, school, school…

Predictive validities were comparatively evaluated for a direct (SCAAS) and an indirect (ISCS) measure of academic self-confidence. Both instruments significantly predicted a variety of criteria for ninth-grade males (N=55). Predictions for females (N=44) were generally lower than for males, and the indirect measure was ineffective. The two…

Although a complex process, canonical correlation has numerous potential advantages over other predictive techniques, the most important being that canonical correlation predicts several criterion variables simultaneously. The paper shows how the method can be used for industrial and vocational-technical education data. (Author)

This paper examines the multivariate multiple regression model and explores its applicability to communication research. The first section discusses partitioning of a data matrix, as a heuristic device for distinguishing among alternative regression models. Section two examines various aspects of univariate multiple regression, including the form…

Argues that G. A. Cziko's conclusions about the inadequacy of mainstream educational research result from misunderstandings of statistical method, philosophy of science, and other topics. Perceptual control theory, which he espouses, may contribute for educational research but its potential does not result from shortcomings of mainstream…

Statistical analysis of a sample of the 1979 entry cohort to Lancaster University indicates that the likelihood of non-completion is determined by various characteristics including the student's academic ability, gender, marital status, work experience prior to university, school background, and location of home in relation to university.…

The purpose of the investigation was to determine the construct validity of a standardized achievement test. The test, administered to over 5800 subjects, is one examination in a diploma program for students pursuing the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) designation. Results of factor and multiple discriminant analysis indicated the presence of…

Experimental results indicate that: (1) the Teaching Situation Reaction Test has potential for predicting inservice social studies teachers' verbal and cognitive classroom behavior patterns; and (2) these patterns are related to current developments in social studies instruction. (MS)

TO DETERMINE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS (SES) AND MEASURES OF ACADEMIC MOTIVATION, APTITUDE, AND ACHIEVEMENT, A SAMPLE OF 4,200 11TH-GRADE CAUCASIAN STUDENTS FROM NINE MICHIGAN HIGH SCHOOLS WAS STUDIED. THE EXPERIMENT TESTED TWO NULL HYPOTHESES--(1) THERE IS NO RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SES AND AN OBJECTIVE MEASURE OF MOTIVATION, AND…