A class of multidimensional latent trait models is described. The properties of the model parameters, and initial results on the accuracy of a maximum likelihood procedure for estimating the model parameters are discussed. The model presented is a special case of the general model described by Rasch (1961), with close similarities to the models…

This paper discusses a model of information storage and retrieval, the k-d tree (Bentley, 1975), a binary, hierarchical tree with multiple associate terms, which has been explored in computer research, and it is suggested that this model could be useful for describing human cognition. Included are two models of human long-term memory--networks and…

A mathematical model designed to identify admitted college applicants who pay a tuition deposit but fail to attend the college was tested. A two-group discriminant model was built using 486 Trinity University students who paid deposits and enrolled as freshmen during the 1983-1984 academic year, and 72 persons who paid tuition deposits but did not…

Achievements, limitations, and difficulties of social science simulation efforts are discussed with particular reference to three examples. The pedagogical use of complementary developmental, philosophical, mathematical, and scientific approaches is advocated to minimize potential abuses of social simulation research. (LS)

The State Planning System (SPS) is a flexible, policy-oriented management tool intended to help analyze possible impacts of various policy decisions. The SPS is able to address a wide range of issues because it depends on the user to provide the relationships and data to be used in the analysis. Such issues might include enrollment shifts among…

The first part of this four-part dissertation reviews conceptual and operational approaches to human communication systems. A new conceptual model for studying communication, General Algorithm for Studying Structuring in Complex Systems (GASSICS), is developed in the second part, and an operational method for applying GASSICS is presented in part…

This pilot simulation study examines the important methodological problems involved in costing educational wastage, focusing specifically on the cost implications of educational wastage in primary education. Purpose of the study is to provide a clearer picture of the underlying rationale and interrelated consequences of reducing educational…

This final report of a National Institute of Education project explores Bayesian statistical analysis as a paradigm for educational impact studies, particularly studies on the education of the disadvantaged. The position of the report is that much of what is wrong with educational research can be attributed to the use of an inappropriate model for…

According to the authors, statistical techniques should accurately reflect the research question of interest; no statistical technique should be used mechanically. A researcher should employ the statistical models most capable of answering the research question. If the true research question is concerned with predicting a variety of dependent…

Describes models programed for computer calculation for predicting number of new positions, age distribution, tenure ratio, etc., based on assumptions concerning appointment and promotion practices. Illustrates application of the models to specific cases at Stanford University. (JT)

Activities in which students make and prove conjectures and devise their own geometric axiom systems are discussed. (SD)

A set procedure developed in this study is useful in determining sample size, based on specification of linear contrasts involving certain formula treatments. (Author/DEP)

Emphasizes the simplicity and elegance of early discoveries related to the hydrogen spectrum and provides an elementary experimental basis of quantum theory based on a "numbers game" which can be played by students. (Author/GS)

Traditional test scoring does not allow the examination of differences among subjects obtaining identical raw scores on the same test. A configuration scoring paradigm for identical raw scores, which provides for such comparisons, is developed and illustrated. (Author)