Describes a bottom-up procedure for discovering multivalued dependencies in observed data without knowing a priori the relationships among the attributes. The proposed algorithm is an application of technique designed for learning conditional independencies in probabilistic reasoning; a prototype system for automated database schema design has…

Argues that structural functionalism as a method for conducting fieldwork and as a format for the analysis of ethnographic data remains a powerful model, one that is easily understood by professional educators. As a heuristic device, functionalist theory can help in the solution of a problem that is otherwise incapable of theoretical…

The heuristic value of Chilcott's essay lies less in its support for structural functionalism and more in its concern to reexamine theory in the work of earlier educational anthropologists for what earlier theories and practices can add to current research. (SLD)

Describes the Couple's Relationship Satisfaction Inventory (CRSI), which consists of 21 specific factors that have been found to be associated with successful relationships. The three components categorized as critical areas of importance are communication, empathy, and a combined category consisting of trust and negotiation. (Author/MKA)

Introduces a science activity where students were asked to purchase four different sizes of eggs; weigh the content of each; and determine whether small, medium, large, or extra large eggs are the best buy. Describes the data analysis process. Also introduces various science activities that make use of the egg shell. (MOK)

Presents a new approach for the determination of the temperature coefficient of resistance of a resistor and a thermistor. Advantages include teaching students how to linearize data in order to utilize least-squares techniques, continuously taking data over desired temperature range, using up-to-date data-acquisition techniques, teaching the use…

Presents a rationale for using single-subject research designs to examine the effects of therapeutic recreation (TR), offering a description of single-subject research designs, examining research requirements, explaining data analysis through visual inspection, presenting examples of single-subject research designs, and concluding that this…

Discusses some of the processes involved in the data flow from U.S. schools through U.S. school districts and examines what is involved in making the data as accurate as possible. Explores how the data, as information, can flow back down to districts and how that flow can be increased. (SLD)

Explains the usefulness of critical incident technique for job analysis. Describes how themes are identified and coded using sample interviews. Data from a recent office occupations study are used to illustrate methods of data analysis. (Contains 22 references.) (SK)

Uses a confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) model as a paradigmatic basis for the comparison of three widely used structural equation modeling computer programs: (1) AMOS 4.0; (2) EQS 6; and (3) LISREL 8. Comparisons focus on aspects of programs that bear on the specification and testing of CFA models and the treatment of incomplete, nonnormally…

Proposes a new method of text classification using stochastic decision lists, ordered sequences of IF-THEN-ELSE rules. The method can be viewed as a rule-based method for text classification having advantages of readability and refinability of acquired knowledge. Advantages of rule-based methods over non-rule-based ones are empirically verified.…

Describes a study of practical work carried out in secondary science where pupils provide explanations for the work they did, and did not do, with data. Reports that students revealed a complex set of priorities and compromises, with the most frequent rationales relating to 'earning marks' within the assessment scheme. (Author/MM)

Counselors conducting survey research have many item format options to contemplate. This study examined midpoint selection and the effect on reliability of including or excluding midpoint options, and using both positively and negatively worded items. Findings indicate that reliability can be affected by both midpoint options and reverse coding.…

Molar and molecular views of behavior imply different approaches to data analysis. The molecular view privileges moment-to-moment analyses, whereas the molar view supports analysis of more and less extended activities. In concurrent performance, the molar view supports study of both extended patterns of choice and more local patterns of visiting…

This manuscript by Connell and Frye ("Infant Child Dev" 2006; 15(6): 609-621) provides a clear example of the application of latent growth mixture models (LGMM) to the development of antisocial behaviour in adolescence. The LGMM approach is discussed in the context of this example, and factors influencing the results achieved with these methods…