The value of variance is emphasized, and the element of design, frequently not adequately understood, is clarified to underscore the importance of variance to the researcher. Two analytic methods, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple regression, are discussed in terms of how each uses/applies variance. Advantages and major difficulties with…

A dichotomous dependent variable is used to determine a combination of variables that will predict group membership. Dichotomous variables are frequently encountered in multiple regression analysis. However, several textbooks question the appropriateness of using multiple regression analysis when analyzing dichotomous dependent variables. The…

Examines differences among Black, Hispanic, and White doctoral students at four major universities. Black and Hispanic students still experience discrimination. Blacks receive the fewest teaching or research assistantships. Recommends more financial aid, assistantships, and compensatory intervention for minority group doctoral students. (DM)

Examines sex equality in computer literacy in Dutch secondary education using a Dutch version of the Minnesota Computer Literacy Awareness Assessment. Research on sex differences in mathematics and science education is used as a basis for testing hypotheses regarding computer literacy, and analyses of results are explained. (LRW)

Designed to determine whether computer-assisted instruction could enhance performance on Piagetian classification and conservation tasks, this study divided 44 preschool children into an experimental group, which was exposed to computer lessons, and a control group. Both age and computer exposure were found to be significant variables. (LRW)

This study was designed both to determine if patrons are able to discern differences in library performance and to investigate relationships between patron evaluation and use of public libraries. Highlights include study procedures, instrumentation, data collection, results of data analyses, and interpretation of results. Eighteen references are…

Describes a study of 38 students at Eastern Oregon State College which identified mathematics proficiency as the key student characteristic leading to successful completion of computer science courses, and developed a model that accounts for 82 percent of the variation in students' final grades in computer courses for use by advisers. (LRW)

In an attempt to correlate effective school practices with actual observed student achievement, a survey instrument concerning principal leadership and school climate was distributed to classroom teachers in the Oklahoma City Public Schools. Responses by more than half of the teachers yielded 1,294 usable questionnaires representing all 94 schools…

A meta-analysis was conducted of 137 studies investigating the effects of father absence due to employment, military service, death, divorce, separation, or desertion on children's cognitive performance as assessed by scores on standardized intelligence, scholastic aptitude, and academic achievement tests and school grades. Aggregation of the…