In response to Webb and Shavelson (EJ 241 567), Nussbaum questions the relevance of the universe score variance as a meaning reliability index and whether it is useful to determine the weights which enter into a composite by means of maximum generalizability. (CM)

Answering Nussbaum's (TM 507 069) criticism, the generalizability coefficient for absolute decisions, the use of the error variance formula, composites of maximum generalizability, and covariance components are discussed as yardsticks of measurement precision with arguments for the use of each procedure to interpret data. (CM)

The mathematical extension from scalars to matrices as a prerequisite for univariate to multivariate generalizations of statistical concepts and methods is discussed. One reason for several alternative techniques is the multitude of ways to generalize from univariate concepts to multivariate concepts. The additional complexity, and lack of…

Calls attention to limitations and dangers in routine application of multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), describes some alternative procedures, and laments the necessarily pervasive character of the statistical problem. (Author)

Statistical measures of practical significance report the extent to which variation in the dependent variable can be explained by the independent variable. Reports of special education research sometimes discuss practicality using the estimate of statistical significance. Practical significance, however, may vary greatly among samples even though…

Describes a study that examined the effect of family socioeconomic status (SES) and parental sex stereotypes and behaviors on high school students' attitudes toward computers. Highlights include gender differences in student attitudes; the effect of parental encouragement; and the effect of SES on parents' beliefs and behavior. (68 references)…

Describes a study that investigated how to teach computer skills to undergraduate female novice users through the design of an instructional manual that facilitated learning computer skills and increased computer self-efficacy by using familiar analogies. Treatment of the experimental and control groups is explained, and measurement techniques are…

Describes a study that investigated the effects of learner control and program control, and lean and full modes of instructional programs, on the achievement, use of options, time on task, and attitudes of high-ability and low-ability students from grades 9 and 10 during computer-assisted instruction. (LRW)

Describes a study of fifth graders that investigated whether types of revision and quality of writing vary for bilingual and monolingual students when using word processors as compared with paper and pencil. Topics discussed include keyboarding skills, bilingualism, and language art skills. (Contains 27 references.) (LRW)