Presents KANT, a FORTRAN 77 software program that tests assumptions of multivariate normality in a data set. Based on the test developed by M. V. Mardia (1985), the KANT program is useful for those engaged in structural equation modeling with latent variables. (SLD)

This paper illustrates how graphical analyses can enhance the interpretation and understanding of multidimensional item response theory (IRT) analyses. Examples of different graphical representations are presented, including item response surfaces, information vectors, and centroid plots of trait distributions. All graphs are intended to…

Illustrates how commonly available structural equation modeling programs can be used to conduct some basic matrix manipulations and generate multivariate normal data with given means and positive definite covariance matrix. Demonstrates the outlined procedure. (SLD)

Examined two methods for fitting models of intrinsic dynamics to intraindividual variability data by testing these techniques' behavior in equations through simulation studies. Among the main results is the demonstration that a local linear approximation of derivatives can accurately recover the parameters of a simulated linear oscillator, with…

Discusses the problem of data redundancy in a fuzzy relational data model and describes three existing frameworks of fuzzy data representation and redundancy treatment. A new treatment based on Zadeh's extension principle is proposed. (18 references) (MES)

Describes problems of assessing change with short time-series data: unreliability of visual inference and fact that current statistical procedures cannot control Type I error because they underestimate positive autocorrelation. Shows how problems can be solved with new interrupted time-series analysis procedure (ITSACORR) that uses more accurate…

Explores the robustness of conclusions from a statistical model against variations in model choice with an illustration from G. Box and G. Tiao (1973). Suggests that simultaneous consideration of a class of models for the same data is sometimes superior to analyzing the data under one model and demonstrates advantages to Adaptive Bayesian…

A model for multilevel ordinal response data is described that allows for nonproportional odds for a subset of explanatory variables. The model, the multilevel thresholds of change model, focuses on modeling the K-1 thresholds that delineate membership in the "K" ordered stages. The model is illustrated with data from a cancer prevention study.…

Examined six published papers using a theory-based evaluation (TBE) approach. Found that authors of the papers did not always make explicit the relation of their data to the theory of the program. Identified some ways in which TBE contributed to the merit of the evaluation. Outlines lessons for the future of TBE. (SLD)

Compares two statistical approaches for the analysis of data obtained from married couples. Summarizes a current multilevel (or hierarchical) model that has demonstrated usefulness in marital research and respecifies this model into a more familiar structural equation modeling formulation. (SLD)

Describes the use of multilevel modeling (MLM) in counseling research and discusses the goals of MLM. Highlights how MLM can be used to provide statistical references in the presence of hierarchical data structure; to separate the within-group effects from between-group effects for predictor variables; and to study the interactions among predictor…

Describes, with examples, three modeling approaches when both "y" and "x" change over time: a conditional approach, an unconditional approach, and an approach based on structural equation modeling. All three can be implemented in a multilevel framework. Also describes how more interesting hypotheses about social processes can…

In this paper, we reconsider the merits of unfolding solutions based on loss functions involving a normalization on the variance per subject. In the literature, solutions based on Stress-2 are often diagnosed to be degenerate in the majority of cases. Here, the focus lies on two frequently occurring types of degeneracies. The first type typically…

The generalization of the solitaire checker puzzle and the attractive patterns that emerge during the process of solving the puzzle, as well in analyzing the minimal solutions of various cases are discussed. Both linear and quadratic patterns are intrinsically linked to this game and the shift from one to the other involves only a slight change…

Using the evaluation work on the W.K. Kellogg Foundation's Unleashing Resources Initiative as an example, in this article we explicate a general four-step model appropriate for multilevel evaluation alignment. We review the relevant literature, argue for the need for evaluation alignment in a multilevel context, explain the four-step model,…