A fairly large number of different methods exist for evaluating comparisons or null hypothetical contrasts. Because it is difficult to choose among them, this paper develops a 2 by 2 classification of the methods. The first dimension of the classification is decision-based error rate vs. experimentwise error rate. The second dimension is planned…

The purposes of this paper are five-fold to discuss: (1) when item response theory (IRT) equating methods should provide better results than traditional methods; (2) which IRT model, the three-parameter logistic or the one-parameter logistic (Rasch), is the most reasonable to use; (3) what unique contributions IRT methods can offer the equating…

When the results of a series of independent studies are combined, it is useful to quantitatively estimate the magnitude of the effects. Several methods for estimating effect size are compared in this paper. Glass' estimator and the uniformly minimum variance unbiased estimator are based on the ratio of the sample mean difference and the pooled…

Log linear models are proposed for the analysis of structural relations among multidimensional developmental contingency tables. Model of quasi-independence are suggested for testing specific hypothesized patterns of development. Transitions in developmental categorizations are described by Markov models applied to successive contingency tables. A…

Estimation of ability and item parameters in latent trait models is discussed. When both ability and item parameters are considered fixed but unknown, the method of maximum likelihood for the logistic or probit models is well known. Discussed are techniques for estimating ability and item parameters when the ability parameters or item parameters…

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the parallel processing impact of multiple-instruction multiple-data path (MIMD) computers on flight simulation software. Basic mathematical functions and arithmetic expressions from typical flight simulation software were selected and run on an MIMD computer to evaluate the improvement in execution time…

This resource book examines the value-added model approach when used in assessing early childhood Title I (ECT-I) programs. The evaluation design must be able to separate program effects from natural maturation. The basic idea behind the value-added model builds on the notion of natural maturation. The major strengths are that it does not require…

The National Assessment of Educational Progress; Second Science Assessment No-Show Study assessed the magnitude and causation of nonresponse biases. A No-Show is defined as an individual who was selected as a sample respondent but failed to be present for regular assessment of the 17-year-old group. The procedure whereby a sample of eligible…

This paper, one of three related documents, examines statewide trends in the distribution of staff in the Michigan public schools. Along with its related documents, it provides a basis for analyzing the impact of state financing mechanisms and funding levels on the overall distribution of resources throughout the state and on the resource…

Multidimensional scaling (MDS) a highly reliable measurement technique, often requires an overwhelming task of the subject in the data collection procedure. This investigation was designed to determine the loss of precision in solution associated with five degrees of systematic reduction in the data collection task. Data were simulated via Monte…

An alternative item-selection procedure for use with Owen's Bayesian adaptive testing strategy is proposed. This procedure is, by design, faster than Owen's original procedure because it searches only part of the total item pool. Item selections are, however, identical for both methods. After a conceptual development of the rapid-search procedure,…

The major concern for any research model, whether disproportionate or not, is the research question and how well that question is reflected by the model. Three "exact solutions" for disproportional situations, the hierarchial, unadjusted main effects, and fitting constant methods, are discussed in terms of the research question that each…

The report describes the math model for an experimental ship handling trainer. The training task is that of a replenishment operation at sea. The model includes equations for ship dynamics of a destroyer, propeller-engine response times, ship separation, interaction effects between supply ship and destroyer, and outputs to a visual display system.…

The basic design for the national evaluation of the Follow Through program is presented, and some of the related issues of analysis are considered. The design, as it now stands, presents many difficulties for analysis. These analysis issues are seen to include the following: (1) What should be the unit of analysis?; (2) How is the effect of a…

The cohort survival model for projecting school district enrollments is presented for use in local district short-term planning. The basic model, modifications, and sample worksheets are presented. To assist in the calculations of local enrollment projections, step-by-step procedures frequently refer to the sample worksheets. Local administrators…