By definition, differential item functioning (DIF) refers to unequal probabilities of a correct response to a test item by examinees from two groups when controlled for their ability differences. Simulation results are presented for an attempt to purify a test by separating out multidimensional items under the assumption that the intent of the…

This Monte-Carlo study compared modified Newton (NW), expectation-maximization algorithm (EM), and minimum Cramer-von Mises distance (MD), used to estimate parameters of univariate mixtures of two components. Data sets were fixed at size 160 and manipulated by mean separation, variance ratio, component proportion, and non-normality. Results…

While research efforts have determined that decision making is of major importance in lesson planning, there has been little work that systematically explores the effect of training in decision making on lesson planning, particularly in terms of preservice teachers. This study used four computer simulations designed to teach decision making skills…

This study was designed to look for patterns of parental behavior by assessing styles of child rearing in a novel way--through responses on an interactive computer program simulating an average day in the life of a mother and a preschooler. Presented to each subject (39 mothers of preschoolers and a control group of non-mothers) were 30 common…

The results obtained from two basic types of pre-equatings of tests were compared: the item response theory (IRT) pre-equating and section pre-equating (SPE). The simulated data were generated from a modified three-parameter logistic model with a constant guessing parameter. Responses of two replication samples of 3000 examinees on two 72-item…

Traditionally, the errors-in-variables problem is concerned with the point estimation of the slope of the true scores regression line when the regressor is measured with error, and when no specification error is present. In this paper, the errors-in-variables problem is extended to include specification error. Least squares procedures provide a…

This report summarizes an investigation of the attitudes of elementary students, teachers, and parents toward the use of educational computer games and simulations in a teaching/learning situation. Following a statement of the project purpose and a literature review, the courseware selection process is described. (This process resulted in use of…

A simulation is described in terms of its three major aspects: the scenario, the underlying model, and the instructional overlay. The major focus of this paper is the instructional overlay as the component that serves to optimize learning and motivation. Functions of simulations are identified as the acquisition of content, the application of the…

A rationale is presented for viewing the decision-making process inherent in determining budget reductions for educational programs as most effectively modeled by a graduated funding approach. The major tenets of the graduated budget reduction approach to educational fiscal policy include the development of multiple alternative reduction plans, or…

Complex decision-making environments often demand that a range of alternative strategies be identified and compared for their shared value in achieving desired ends. Simple parametric statistical procedures such as analysis of variance and discriminant function analysis can be used in such situations to compare (using selected criteria) the value…

This paper examined the rank transformation approach to analysis of variance as a solution to the Behrens-Fisher problem. Using simulation methodology four parameters were manipulated for the two group design: (1) ratio of population variances; (2) distribution form; (3) sample size and (4) population mean difference. The results indicated that…

Seven papers discuss current issues and applied social research concerning alcohol traffic safety. Prevention, policy input, methodology, planning strategies, anti-drinking/driving programs, social-programmatic orientations of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Kansas Driving Under the Influence Law, New Jersey Driving While Impaired Programs,…

Ridge estimates (REs) of population beta weights were compared to ordinary least squares (OLS) estimates through computer simulation to evaluate the use of REs in explanatory research. With fixed predictors, there was some question of the consistency of ridge regression, but with random predictors, REs were superior to OLS. (SLD)

Discusses the relationship of fidelity and learning in computer simulation. Highlights include a review of previous research; a discussion of transfer of learning; a taxonomy for fidelity analysis with four different types of computer-based instructional simulations; and implications for instructional design and research. (41 references)…

Compares David Kearns' resentment of school performance (in the same "Kappan" issue) to the author's own frustration with Xerox photocopiers. To achieve the restructuring and choice central to Kearns' educational recovery plan, the schools will need to depend increasingly on technology (computer simulations, interactive video, and…