Analogies are drawn between the social aspects of programming and similar aspects of mathematics and natural languages. By analogy with the history of auxiliary languages it is suggested that Fortran and Cobol will remain dominant. (Available from the Association of Computing Machinery, 1133 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036.) (Author/TL)

This study assesses the accuracy of ASCAL, a microcomputer-based program for estimating item parameters for the three-parameter logistic model in item response theory. Item responses are generated from a three-parameter model, and item parameter estimates from ASCAL are compared to the generating item parameters and to estimates produced by…

The programing process is similar to methods employed in writing a composition. The author, in each case, must understand the subject, know the audience, outline material, and make revisions until the finished product works flawlessly. English instructors could teach programing and free math instructors to teach mathematics. (MBR)