Compared two parametric procedures for detecting differential item functioning (DIF) using the graded response model (GRM), the GRM-likelihood ratio test and the GRM-differential functioning of items and tests, with a nonparametric DIF detection procedure, Poly-SIBTEST. Monte Carlo simulation results show that Poly-SIBTEST showed the least amount…

Discusses the relationship between human performance technology (HPT) and instructional systems design (ISD). Addresses the balance between the benefits of diversity versus focus in the field; key differences between HPT and ISD; and clarifying the distinction between scope of analysis and diagnosis versus the types of intervention to design and…

The Type I error rates and statistical power of nine selected multiple comparison procedures were compared in a Monte Carlo study. The Peretz, Ryan, and Fisher-Hayter tests were the most powerful, and differences among these procedures were consistently small. Choosing among these procedures might be based on their calculational complexity. (SLD)

Describes an activity that can help refine and develop the skill of scanning, that is, reading a text to locate a particular piece of information. The activity involves analyzing two texts: the first is the original, and the second is a shortened, slightly inaccurate "battered" version of the first. (GLR)

Describes a submethodology for using information from the analysis phase during the design phase when developing technical training. The development of instructional materials is discussed; Keller's ARCS (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction) motivation model and Gagne's events of instruction are compared; and the development and use…

Presents the AIPD (attracting, informing, positioning, and delivering) approach to the evaluation of commercial Web sites that assess the strategic potential of Web sites, provides a framework for the development of competitive sites, and compares Web site strategies within and across national boundaries. Compares Internet strategies of Japanese…

Benchmarking is used in higher education to improve performance by comparison with other institutions. Types used include internal, external competitive, external collaborative, external transindustry, and implicit. Methods include ideal type (or gold) standard, activity-based benchmarking, vertical and horizontal benchmarking, and comparative…

Finds that, although the thought of Jean Jacques Rousseau is frequently cited as an influence on Immanuel Kant, this has no basis regarding pedagogical influence. Compares the "Projecto" and "Emilio" of Rousseau with Kant's "Pedagogia." (BT)

Three variations on a classroom demonstration of the encapsulation of droplets and evidence for release of the interior solution are described. The first two demonstrations mimic biocompatible applications of encapsulation. Reversible formation of capsules from aqueous solutions of sodium alginate, a negatively charged polysaccharide derived from…

Purpose: Multidimensional scoring methods yield valuable information about communication abilities. However, issues of training demands for valid and reliable scoring, especially in current service delivery contexts, may preclude common usage. Alternatives to multidimensional scoring were investigated in a sample of adults with aphasia. Method:…

The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare the performance of a stepwise variable selection algorithm to traditional exploratory factor analysis. The Monte Carlo study included six factors in the design; the number of common factors; the number of variables explained by the common factors; the magnitude of factor loadings; the number…

The theme for the 58th annual conference of the Association of Literacy Educators and Researchers (ALER) was Bridging Cultures Through Literacy. In the first section of the Yearbook, Parker Fawson's presidential address captures the unique nature of ALER and its role in his professional development, and then moved beyond to capture the changing…

Instruction in English as a second language for differentially prepared college students should be conducted in an environment in which students have input from a wide range of authentic spoken and written language samples, varying in difficulty level. The instructional process should be viewed by the students as neither intimidating nor…

Studies that examine the impacts of education interventions on key student, teacher, and school outcomes typically collect data on large samples and on many outcomes. In analyzing these data, researchers typically conduct multiple hypothesis tests to address key impact evaluation questions. Tests are conducted to assess intervention effects for…

The nonequivalent groups with anchor test (NEAT) design involves missing data that are missing by design. Three popular equating methods that can be used with a NEAT design are the poststratification equating method, the chain equipercentile equating method, and the item-response-theory observed-score-equating method. These three methods each…