Analyzing and interpreting data is an important science practice that contributes toward the construction of models from data; yet, there is evidence that students may struggle with making meaning of data. The study reported here focused on characterizing students' approaches to analyzing rate and concentration data in the context of method of…

The representation of multivariate data by icons is discussed. The factorial sun is suggested as superior to the commonly used snowflake or sun icons and as better representing the values of the different variables and their correlational structure. Two experiments with 60 college students demonstrate the factorial sun's superiority. (SLD)

A multilevel variance component analysis from the pilot year of pretesting an instrument--the GENED--designed to present information about general education outcomes is presented, using data from about 11,000 college students. The analysis addresses the discriminant validity of the subtests and statistical issues in test construction. (SLD)