The paper has three major objectives. The first objective of the paper is to synthesize and define common categories of meta-analysis. The second objective is to propose a way to comprehend these common categories of meta-analysis through learning from their respective generic conceptual frameworks. The third objective is to point out which R…

About 45 R packages to analyze data using item response theory (IRT) have been developed over the last decade. This article introduces these 45 R packages with their descriptions and features. It also describes possible advanced IRT models using R packages, as well as dichotomous and polytomous IRT models, and R packages that contain applications…

"Spatial analysis" is an analytic method that uses location-based variables or maps to understand how places, the characteristics of places, and the people and things in places are arranged in space, as well as the reasons for these arrangements. This resource focuses on how spatial analysis can be used to understand early care and…

The Reduced Reparameterized Unified Model (Reduced RUM) is a diagnostic classification model for educational assessment that has received considerable attention among psychometricians. However, the computational options for researchers and practitioners who wish to use the Reduced RUM in their work, but do not feel comfortable writing their own…

This paper proposes a taxonomy of the pedagogical opportunities that are offered by mathematics analysis software such as computer algebra systems, graphics calculators, dynamic geometry or statistical packages. Mathematics analysis software is software for purposes such as calculating, drawing graphs and making accurate diagrams. However, its…

Describes a microcomputer-based string index format generated from concept networks using multiple search terms. Link weighting is highlighted as a method to decide which term appears first so the entry reflects the classification implied by the search specification. The computer software used for this system is briefly described. (Author/LRW)

Community and culture significantly influence value orientation, perceived needs, and motivation as well as provide the ground for creating shared understanding. All disciplines have their own cultures, and all cultures evolve through cross-cultural exchanges. The computing community has created and documented a sound body of knowledge of…

This study examines the integration of heterogeneous bibliographic information resources from geographically distributed locations in an automated, unified, and controlled way using abstract data types called "classes" through the Message-Object Model defined in Smalltalk-80 software. The concept of achieving data consistency by…

Suggests new method of external distribution called tree partitioning that involves use of binary tree to split incoming file into successively smaller partitions for internal sorting. Number of disc accesses during a tree-partitioning sort were calculated in simulation using files extracted from British National Bibliography catalog files. (19…

Presents a classification system of four microcomputer simulation types developed to evaluate their instructional processes: structured questions and graphics, variable-assignment exercises, diagnostic simulations, and group-interactive simulations. How this taxonomy contributes to three tasks associated with classroom use of software is…

This overview of computer uses in occupational training discusses three computer-based training modes--embedded, stand-alone, and adjunct training. An adjunct training system is described which captures task realism through a simulation to teach the use of a command and control system. A pilot study of this adjunct system's use is described.…

Provides a framework for understanding the concept of validity and how it applies to simulation research. Extant tests of validity are discussed in terms of this framework, and a general schema for testing validity is proposed. (MBR)

Ways in which the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) can be used to perform some Rasch analyses are described in detail. It is shown how SPSS and a set of item calibrations can be used to estimate person abilities, standard errors of measurement, test characteristic curve, test information curve, classification consistency on a…

Summarized are two reports of a federally funded project on the use of artificial intelligence in special education. The first report, "Artificial Intelligence Applications in Special Education: How Feasible?," by Alan Hofmeister and Joseph Ferrara, provides information on the development and evaluation of a series of prototype systems…