Examines reasons for cataloging backlogs in libraries and describes a preliminary theory of backlog dynamics. Formulas for predicting backlogs are discussed, backlog models are explained, the use of computer simulation software to form models is described, and further research is suggested. (five references) (LRW)

Describes algorithms used in the computer program LOGIMO for obtaining maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters in loglinear models. These algorithms are also useful for the analysis of loglinear item-response theory models. Presents modified versions of the iterative proportional fitting and Newton-Raphson algorithms. Simulated data…

Reviewed transition to work life literature and interviewed 5 youth counselors and 14 youths regarding their views of transition process, barriers to successful transitions, characteristics of successful transitions, and meaning of work. Both groups consistently identified employment skills, employer characteristics, and social support as…

Contrasts modeling methods in control theory to the methods of statistical generalizations in empirical studies of human or animal behavior. Presents a computer simulation that predicts behavior based on variables (effort and rewards) determined by the invariable (desired reward). Argues that control theory methods better reflect relationships to…

An adaptive testing algorithm is presented based on an alternative modeling framework, and its effectiveness is investigated in a simulation based on real data. The algorithm uses a latent class modeling framework in which assessed latent attributes are assumed to be categorical variables. (SLD)

The importance and value of modeling in physics teaching is discussed from two different points of view: to teach physics as it is nowadays practiced; and to take into account research into cognitive science and learning. Two kinds of modeling software are briefly described. (40 references) (Author)

Investigates the BILOG computer program's ability to recover known item parameters for different numbers of items, examinees, and variances of the prior distributions of discrimination parameters for the two-parameter logistic item-response theory model. For samples of at least 250 examinees and 15 items, simulation results support using BILOG.…

Kernel smoothing methods for nonparametric item characteristic curve estimation are reviewed. A simulation with 500 examinees and real data from 3,000 records of the Graduate Record Examination illustrate the rapidity of kernel smoothing. Even when population curves are three-parameter logistic, simulation suggests no loss of efficiency. (SLD)

Review of the use of simulations and games in communication education over the past 25 years focuses on the nature of participation in simulations and games, the importance of debriefing, and implications of both for the relationships between students and teachers in the classroom. (LRW)

Effects of different weighting schemes on selecting the optimal number of observations in multivariate-multifacet generalizability designs are studied when cost constraints are imposed. Comparison of four schemes through simulation indicates that all four produce similar optimal values and that reliability should be similar. (SLD)

Rasch model total-fit statistics and between-item fit statistics were compared for their ability to detect measurement disturbances through the use of simulated data. Results indicate that the between-fit statistic appears more sensitive to systematic measurement disturbances and the total-fit statistic is more sensitive to random measurement…

Describes QMaPS (Qualitative Matching and Prediction system for Simulations), a qualitative reasoning system designed to function as a module in exploratory simulation learning environments. Highlights include a hierarchical organization of variables; multilevel relation typology; modeling of physical and conceptual domain structures; an…

Describes activities that allow students to work cooperatively to analyze and study evidence from crime scenes and archaeological digs. The activities demonstrate to students the interdependence of a variety of disciplines in the real world. (ZWH)

A simulation exercise consisting of 12 stages corresponding to the life-stages of an enterprise is used as a language-learning technique for business French. The exercise develops both language and networking skills while presenting a creative challenge to students. (MSE)

An extension to the partial credit model, the linear partial credit model, is considered under the assumption of a certain linear decomposition of the item x category parameters into basic parameters. A conditional maximum likelihood algorithm for estimating basic parameters is presented and illustrated with simulation and an empirical study. (SLD)