A model for simultaneous optimization of combinations of test-based decisions in psychology and education is proposed using Bayesian decision theory. Weak and strong rules are distinguished for a decision model that consists of a combination of placement and mastery decisions. (SLD)

Proposes a marginal Bayesian estimation procedure to improve item parameter estimates for the three parameter logistic model. Computer simulation suggests that implementing the marginal Bayesian estimation algorithm with four-parameter beta prior distributions and then updating the priors with empirical means of updated intermediate estimates can…

Fully and partially ranked data arise in a variety of contexts. From a Bayesian perspective, attention has focused on distance-based models; in particular, the Mallows model and extensions thereof. In this paper, a class of prior distributions, the "Binary Tree," is developed on the symmetric group. The attractive features of the class are: it…

This article describes an illustration of Bayesian inference that has proved popular with students.

In light of a recent revelation that Gersten (1985) included erroneous information on one of two programs for English Language Learners (ELLs), the authors re-calculate results of their earlier meta-analysis of program effectiveness studies for ELLs in which Gersten's studies had behaved as outliers (Rolstad, Mahoney & Glass, 2005). The correction…

In meta-analysis, it is common to have dependent effect sizes, such as several effect sizes from the same sample but measured at different times. Cheung and Chan proposed the adjusted-individual and adjusted-weighted procedures to estimate the degree of dependence and incorporate this estimate in the meta-analysis. The present study extends the…

Two needs of Georgia State University Professional Development School Partnerships are to show increases in both student academic achievement and teacher efficacy. The Teacher-Intern-Professor (TIP) Model was designed to address these needs. The TIP model focuses on using the university and school partnership to support Georgia State University…

Focusing on a single sample obtained randomly with replacement from a single population, this article examines the regression of population on sample proportions and develops an unbiased estimator of the square of the correlation between them. This estimator turns out to be the regression coefficient. Use of the squared-correlation estimator as a…

Bayesian inference on multinomial probabilities is conducted based on data collected from the game Pass the Pigs[R]. Prior information on these probabilities is readily available from the instruction manual, and is easily incorporated in a Dirichlet prior. Posterior analysis of the scoring probabilities quantifies the discrepancy between empirical…

Examines the question of how large a sample must be in order to produce empirical Bayes estimates which are preferable to other commonly used estimates, such as proportion correct observed score. (Author/RC)

A specific application of a general paradigm described by R. D. Cook (1986) and R. McCulloch (1985) in assessing local influence is given. Snow geese flock size is estimated as "X" by an observer and "Y" by a photograph. "Y" is believed to be the true flock size. The problem is to obtain true flock size "Z"…

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate in detail how the Empirical Bayes (EB) statistical estimation strategy can be applied to an important class of educational research contexts. EB methods are tailored specifically to the analysis of data with a hierarchical structure. For instance, investigators may be interested in discovering how…

It is commonly proposed that educational and psychological assessments consist of a multifaceted procedure that incorporates scores from a variety of tests and resources. Little guidance has been offered regarding the method for selecting a combination of testing instruments used in an evaluation. The problem of test selection is discussed in the…

Bayesian analysis of an m-group model is considered. A convenient stage III prior is proposed, and cases when the posterior distributions take on a simple form are exhibited. The behavior of various point estimators of the linear parameters of the model are explored in a Monte Carlo study. In the simple model considered, the O'Hagan estimator…

The use of Bayesian methodology to assign grades in classroom situations is presented. Assigning a grade is viewed from a criterion, as opposed to norm, referenced perspective. Criteria include mastery of some proportion, determined by the teacher, of the subject matter covered in a course. Different levels of mastery are deemed possible and,…