Mediation analyses are crucial for understanding the mechanisms through which interventions or theoretical constructs influence outcomes within nested structures, commonly found in education, psychology, and sociology. Recognizing the importance of these effects, designing and analyzing robust studies to detect them is essential. This dissertation…

Despite the fundamental importance of research design processes to educational research projects, research design needs to be more intentional. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether using an online learning resource and engaging in online discussion fostered learners' knowledge about educational research design and facilitated critical…

Addresses the use of missing cells in longitudinal research. Gives a sample educational situation involving cohorts and grade levels and uses multiple linear regression for the solution. Discusses applications of longitudinal research wherein logically missing cells occur. (Author/SV)

Recent criticism in the literature of the use of inferential statistics in educational research is refuted. The authors focus on the defense of multiple regression analysis. (JKS)

The causal modelling technique is extended to nonrecursive causal models that involve feedback and/or reciprocal causation. Three least squares techniques for estimating parameters are described, and data from an empirical study illustrate the causal modelling technique. (Author/GDC)

Contrary to Anderson (EJ 187 936), his rule for equation identification is a necessary but not sufficient condition; furthermore, the choice of two-stage or ordinary least squares depends on results and not on methodological properties of estimators. Modification of Anderson's rule and a means for choosing between estimates is offered. (Author/CP)

This interim report is concerned with the analysis of educational experiments and quasiexperiments where alternative teaching methods are applied to intact classes or where alternative programs are set up in samples of schools or communities. Generally, such studies have used the class, the school, or the community as the unit of sampling with the…

Discriminant analysis is reviewed in terms of: (1) formulations, (2) interpretations, (3) uses, (4) issues and problems in applications, (5) recent developments and conceptualizations, and (6) general references and computer programs. Four aspects of a discriminant analysis are considered. They are: (1) separation: determining intergroup…

The authors state that multiple regression is a powerful method of statistical analysis, provides a strength of relationship index, and should replace analysis of variance (ANOVA) in educational research. They also discuss the coding of categorical variables and available computer programs for multiple regression. (Author/MH)

The present paper contributes to research methodology as practiced in the field by providing practitioners with a concise statement of the problems in analyzing unbalanced designs, and by clarifying the conditions under which the analysis alternatives are most appropriate. The purposes of the present paper are: (1) to examine the analysis…

Contrasts aptitude by treatment interaction (ATI) and hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) methods for making cross-level inferences between individual-level and group-level factors in school effectiveness research. Recommends HLM when intraclass correlations are high. ATI is suitable when intraclass correlations are low, but partitioning the…

The degree to which the chosen units of analysis are likely to produce spurious findings in staged combinations of multiple linear regression procedures are examined. The effects of grouping variables (e.g., classroom, school, and school district) on Procedures such as Coleman's semipartial regression and Mayeske's commonalities, in light of…

Given the increased data-based capabilities of educational institutions, educational researchers should have more opportunities to use sequential designs. This paper illustrates how to analyze educational data from a cohort-sequential design. University data pertaining to grade inflation were analyzed using a variant of multiple regression.…

This self-contained and self-instructional unit is intended for use by evaluation and development personnel and by students in introductory research and evaluation courses. The unit contains a discussion of the regression employing graphic illustrations with actual data. The user is introduced to the regression effect in the single group…