Presents activities to visually explore the algebraic concepts of variable, constant, the distributive property, and combining like terms. Presents four transparencies that use visual models to understand exercises in students perform the same mental calculations on a number of their choice and obtain the same result. (MDH)

This article describes a calculus lesson that illustrates the nature of cycles in simple systems of nonlinear differential equations through the use of the Lotka-Volterra predator-prey model as incorporated in the computer software package, Phaser (version 1.0). (JJK)

An interest questionnaire with 72 university course descriptions based on a facet design was used to determine whether computer anxiety or computer disinterest was related to interest in or willingness to take selected courses of 200 Belgian and German students. Analysis of variance supports conclusions from the multidimensional scalings. (SLD)

Procedures for obtaining student samples for the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) and deriving survey weights for analysis of survey data are described. Sample designs are economically and operationally feasible, and weighting procedures result in increased precision of estimates as they account for the probabilities of student…

Monte Carlo techniques are used to examine the power of the "B" statistic of R. L. Brennan (1972) to detect negatively discriminating items drawn from a variety of nonnormal population distributions. A simplified procedure is offered for conducting an item-discrimination analysis on typical classroom objective tests. (SLD)

The computation and determination of the statistical significance of three coefficients of interpersonal attractiveness or cohesiveness in task-oriented or social groups are described. The approach is based on ratings made by each member of a group of all other group members. Experience using the technique is reviewed. (SLD)

Describes the development of the ability to identify a ratio as the appropriate measure of a given attribute by (n=26) prospective elementary teachers. It was concluded that traditional procedural approaches to teaching ratios do not challenge students to develop their own mathematical models of the world. (21 references) (MKR)

Presents an alternative method to teaching percent problems which uses a 10x10 grid to help students visualize percents. Offers a means of representing information and suggests different approaches for finding solutions. Includes reproducible student worksheet. (MKR)

Expands on research findings about the literacy development of children living in poverty through the use of a large and nationally representative sample of poor and middle-income eighth graders. It explores home and school influences on young adolescents' performance on reading comprehension. (GLR)

Natural statistical models based on renewal processes for individuals' Behavior Stream are developed. For continuous observation, statistical and psychometric properties are obtained for empirical: (1) rates of behavior; (2) proportions of behavior type; (3) prevalence; and (4) event duration. Results provide a guide for design and analysis. (SLD)

Longitudinal analyses of individual growth curves and the aggregation of individual curves to describe institutional growth were studied using achievement scores from students moving from grade one to grade eight and their ability scores for one year. Complete data for 529 individuals (reading) and 527 individuals (mathematics) were used. (SLD)

Issues surrounding a recent voting rights case in Los Angeles (California) are discussed and evaluated in this introduction to the remainder of this special issue. The most important issues are geographical compactness, political cohesiveness, and racial voting blocs. (SLD)

The statistical power of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and its advantages over simple analysis of variance are examined in some experimental situations, and an algorithm is proposed for its proper application. In nonrandomized experiments, an ANCOVA is generally not a good approach. (SLD)

Describes software, hardware, and devices that were designed to provide students with an environment to experiment with basic ideas of mechanics, including nonlinear dynamics. Examines the behavior of a Lorenzian water wheel by comparing experimental data with theoretical results obtained from computer-based sensors. (MDH)

Extent to which findings derived from 4 approaches to multimethod multitrait analyses (MTMM) were consistent in providing estimates of construct validity related to measurement of 4 dimensions of perceived competence across 4 maximally dissimilar rating methods was determined using sample of 158 eleventh graders in Canada. Four MTMM approaches…