This study compared three approaches for handling a fourth level of nesting when analyzing cluster-randomized trial (CRT) data. Although CRT data analyses may include repeated measures, individual, and cluster levels, there may be an additional fourth level that is typically ignored. This study examined the impact of ignoring this fourth level,…

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate clustering methods within a functional data analysis (FDA) framework for identifying subgroups of individuals that may be exhibiting categories of misfit. Person response functions (PRFs) estimated within a FDA framework (FDA-PRFs) provide graphical displays that can aid in the identification of persons…

Large-scale education data are collected via complex sampling designs that incorporate clustering and unequal probability of selection. Multilevel models are often utilized to account for clustering effects. The probability weighted approach (PWA) has been frequently used to deal with the unequal probability of selection. In this study, we examine…

Respondent attrition is a common problem in national longitudinal panel surveys. To make full use of the data, weights are provided to account for attrition. Weight adjustments are based on sampling design information and data from the base year; information from subsequent waves is typically not utilized. Alternative methods to address bias from…

An empirical comparison is made of three proposed indices of relative predictor variable contribution: (1) the scaled weights of the first discriminant function; (2) the total group estimates of the correlations between each predictor variable and the first function; and (3) the within-groups estimates of the correlations between each predictor…

This paper describes a study that attempts to measure the influence of a commercially available game, Marketplace, on student achievement is economic understanding and student attitudes toward the instructional process and selected economic concepts. (Author)

The power of randomization tests was systematically examined through simulation for typical designs that rely on the random assignment of interventions within the observation sequence. A 30-observation AB design, 32-observation AB design, and multiple baseline AB (15 observations on 4 individuals) were studied. Power estimates were generally found…

Examines the effects of selected educational simulation game design and process variables on participants' comprehension of decision-making criteria, interest in real-life analogue of the decision-making procedure, sense of group integration, and satisfaction with participation. (Editor/RK)

A growth curve approach to longitudinal profile analysis is presented by which univariate and multivariate descriptions of achievement and rate of growth are provided, and intraindividual strengths and weaknesses are computed for profiles of achievement and progress. Analyses are reported for simulated data conforming to a straight-line growth…

Within-class regression is a method, developed in this paper, of comparing a large number of nonequivalent groups. This study indicated that within-class regression was a less biased method of data analysis and will yield more accurate estimates of treatment effects than analysis of covariance. (PN)