A procedure that allows students to view an entire bacterial growth curve during a two- to three-hour student laboratory period is described. Observations of the lag phase, logarithmic phase, maximum stationary phase, and phase of decline are possible. A nonpathogenic, marine bacterium is used in the investigation. (KR)

Described is the use of two types of physical sensors, a motion sensor, and a light gate, which enable the microcomputer to be used as a measuring instrument for practical experiments on motion. (KR)

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)

Discussion of search strategies in information retrieval systems focuses on the implementation of document ranking based on inverted files. Highlights include descriptions of three heuristic methods for implementing a weighting strategy and a comparison of two methods for estimating retrieval accuracy, including document movement and linear…

Examines the statistical distribution of relevance judgments by reviewing and comparing the results of several studies over the last three decades. A characteristic distribution is examined, and a hypothesis is offered to explain it based on human judging characteristics and the nature of relevance experimentation. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Describes and organizes the variables affecting display presentation format (i.e., tables and graphs) in information systems into a classification scheme and creates a framework for research in this area. Two-factor studies are discussed; research recommendations are presented; and Cognitive Match Interface Design is explained. (Contains 31…

Presents activities designed to help students bridge the gap between the graphical representation of a function and a verbal description. Includes a number of nonstandard graphs and reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

The accuracy and bias of estimates of whisker length based on box, line, and midgap plots were examined. For each type of graph, 20 different undergraduates (n=60) viewed 48 single-plot graphs. Whisker-length estimates for box and line plots were more accurate and less biased than those for midgap plots. (TJH)

Described is a situation where students are allowed to enlist the aid of a computer graphing program to produce graphs for their lab reports. (KR)

Effects of response guided experimentation in applied behavior analysis on Type I error rates are explored. Data from T. A. Matyas and K. M. Greenwood (1990) suggest that, when visual inspection is combined with response guided experimentation, Type I error rates can be as high as 25%. (SLD)

A graphical-decision rule for studying an item's behavior and admitting items onto a test form is proposed. The tool--the isthmus of acceptance--ameliorates some parameter stability problems common to binary item response theory models by using a functional representation of item performance, and it is tuned to match current standards. (TJH)

Demonstrates several different ways to visually display patterns of data. Discusses how the different graphics highlight different information in the data. (SR)

Describes class activities that combine reading-prediction strategies with various graphs that quantify and make visual representations of those predictions, strengthening both reading and mathematical knowledge. Describes learning about whole numbers (picto/bar graphs), multiples (bar graphs), fractions (pie graphs), and percents (pie graphs).…

Presents a lesson that uses a motion detector in order for students to experience the interplay between motion and its graphical representation of the slope. Focuses on the change in the appearance of the graph with regard to changing speed. (ASK)

Describes a mathematical investigation for fifth-grade students that incorporates a social studies unit on the United States. Provides a method of using mathematics by applying it to other content areas. (ASK)