An extension to Murdock's Theory of Distributed Associative Memory, based on associative chaining between items, is presented. The extended theory is applied to several serial order phenomena, including serial list learning, delayed recall effects, partial report effects, and buildup and release from proactive interference. (TJH)

An alternating least squares algorithm is offered for fitting the DEcomposition into DIrectional COMponents (DEDICOM) model for representing asymmetric relations among a set of objects via a set of coordinates for the objects on a limited number of dimensions. An algorithm is presented for fitting the IDIOSCAL model in the least squares sense.…

Describes stochastic models. Discusses the rationale for stochastic analysis and modeling, and provides a master equation for the models with respect to chemical processes. Lists 29 references. (YP)

The construction of parallel tests from item-response-theory-based item banks is discussed. Two methods for sequentially selecting parallel tests and two methods for simultaneously constructing tests using 0-1 linear programing are compared. Advantages and disadvantages of these techniques are reviewed. (SLD)

Proposes an information retrieval model in which documents are characterized by a simple probability measure on the set of index terms, and describes two retrieval strategies, one based on utility theory and the other on information theory. The discussion covers experimental findings of retrieval effectiveness and insights into fundamental…

A model is proposed that describes subject behavior on repeat paired comparison preference tests. The model extends prior work in this area in that it explicitly allows for abstentions and permits the derivation of individual true scores of discrimination ability as well as conditional estimates of proportionate preference. (Author/TJH)

A response to comments on internal correlation for statistical analysis, as proposed by the present authors (1989), is provided. Focus is on issues raised by W. W. Rozeboom (1989). Comments by J. H. Schuenemeyer (1989) and R. Bargmann (1989) are briefly considered. (TJH)

Both doubly multivariate and multivariate mixed models of analyzing repeated measures on multivariate responses are reviewed. Given multivariate normality, a condition called multivariate sphericity of the covariance matrix is both necessary and sufficient for the validity of the multivariate mixed model analysis. (SLD)

Formulas for computing the exact signed and unsigned areas between two item characteristic curves (ICCs) are presented. It is further shown that when the "c" parameters are unequal, the area between two ICCs is infinite. The significance of the exact area measures for item bias research is discussed. (Author)

Using general recognition theory, a new theory of similarity is developed, postulating that perceived similarity is determined by distributional overlap. This theory is related to existing theories of similarity. Three experiments using a total of 19 university students are presented, testing the empirical validity of the theory. (SLD)

The sampling variability and zeta-values of parameter estimates for misspecified structural equation models were examined. A Monte Carlo study was used. Results are discussed in terms of asymptotic theory and the implications for the practice of structural equation models. (SLD)

A method for detecting and interpreting disturbances of the local-independence assumption among items that share common stimulus material or other features is presented. Dichotomous and polytomous Rasch models are used to analyze structure of the learning outcome superitems. (SLD)

Two discrimination coefficients, known as "disco" and "odisco," are proposed for measuring the extent of overlap in distributions as a direct function of the variance between the arithmetic means. These coefficients are related to K. Pearson's "eta" (1905) and R. A. Fisher's "F" (1950). (SLD)

It is demonstrated, theoretically and empirically, that item sets can be selected that meet the unidimensionality assumption of most item response theory models, even though they require more than one ability for a correct response. A method for identifying such item sets for test development purposes is presented. (SLD)

The partitioning of squared Euclidean--E(sup 2)--distance between two vectors in M-dimensional space into the sum of squared lengths of vectors in mutually orthogonal subspaces is discussed. Applications to specific cluster analysis problems are provided (i.e., to design Monte Carlo studies for performance comparisons of several clustering methods…