Structural equation modeling (SEM) is a widely used technique for studies involving latent constructs. While covariance-based SEM (CB-SEM) permits estimating the regression relationship among latent constructs, the parameters governing this relationship do not apply to that among the scored values of the constructs, which are needed for…

Exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) allows for the estimation of all cross-loadings, which leads to the number of parameters estimated substantially greater than that in conventional SEM. This study examined the sensitivity of fit measures (CFI, RMSEA, AIC, BIC, SaBIC, LRT) to measurement noninvariance in ESEM. Results suggested that…

Collaborative problem-solving (CPS) has been one of the essential core skills for future students. However, we found that there are many studies on the evaluation of collaborative problem-solving skills, but there is little studies on the subject areas based on which collaborative problem-solving skills have been evaluated. The three-dimensional…

Despite the sensitivity of fit indices to various model and data characteristics in structural equation modeling, these fit indices are used in a rigid binary fashion as a mere rule of thumb threshold value in a search for model adequacy. Here, we address the behavior and interpretation of the popular Comparative Fit Index (CFI) by stressing that…

Complex social scientific theories are conventionally tested using linear structural equation modeling (SEM). However, the underlying assumptions of linear SEM often prove unrealistic, making the decomposition of direct and indirect effects problematic. Recent advancements in causal mediation analysis can help to address these shortcomings,…

Network meta-analysis (NMA) compares the efficacy and harm between several treatments by combining direct and indirect evidence. The validity of NMA requires that all available evidence form a coherent network. Failure to meet such requirement is known as inconsistency. The most popular approach to inconsistency detection is to compare the direct…

The equal odds baseline is a parsimonious model that describes the relationship between quantity and quality of output in scientific creativity. Specifically, it is posited that quality is a linear function of quantity, and therefore, strong positive correlations between these two variables are expected. Strong positive correlations also play a…

This dissertation is a collection of three papers. The first is a conceptual paper, followed by two data analysis papers. All three papers examine the connection between structural equation models and regression models, and how one may better learn, research and apply structural equation models when structural equation models are thought of as…

The present study examined the convergent validity between two frequently used achievement goal instruments: Patterns of Adaptive Learning Scales (PALS) and the Achievement Goal Questionnaire 3 x 2 (AGQ 3 x 2). Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation models tested for relationships both within and across the scales in a sample of…

In the post-pandemic period, as a result of digitally-surrounded learning environments in higher education institutions (HEIs), some obstacles are observed in learning procedures such as academic procrastination because of poor digital competences. Because of the limited research focusing on specifically digital competences and academic…

Background: Reciprocal relationships exist between motor competencies, physical activity and self-concept. Aims: Using a structural equation model, this study examined whether these relationships also appear in children with intellectual disabilities, how they can be validly measured, and if there are differences between children with and without…

Cloud computing is the next generation of on-demand information technology services and products that deliver various applications over the Internet. Cloud computing is often adopted as a superior alternative by data centers to replace their current system. However, cloud computing services are still accompanied by many issues which hinder their…

The objective was to verify the construct validity and test-retest reliability of the Test of Advanced Movement Skills (TAMS) with an innovative dual-outcome scoring system. Three statistical approaches--confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM), and item response theory analysis (IRT)--were applied to the…

Observational data typically contain measurement errors. Covariance-based structural equation modelling (CB-SEM) is capable of modelling measurement errors and yields consistent parameter estimates. In contrast, methods of regression analysis using weighted composites as well as a partial least squares approach to SEM facilitate the prediction and…

Research Findings: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the education system faced unprecedented challenges, including global school closures, the cancellation of face-to-face teaching, and ultimately school step-wise or partial reopening. Childcare providers have faced additional significant stressors from the beginning of the outbreak. The present…