Hierarchical classes models are quasi-order retaining Boolean decomposition models for N-way N-mode binary data. To fit these models to data, rationally started alternating least squares (or, equivalently, alternating least absolute deviations) algorithms have been proposed. Extensive simulation studies showed that these algorithms succeed quite…

The theory of signal detection is convenient for measuring mnemonic ability in recognition memory paradigms. In these paradigms, randomly selected participants are asked to study randomly selected items. In practice, researchers aggregate data across items or participants or both. The signal detection model is nonlinear; consequently, analysis…

This study compares the performance of three nonparametric item characteristic curve (ICC) estimation procedures: isotonic regression, smoothed isotonic regression, and kernel smoothing. Smoothed isotonic regression, employed along with an appropriate kernel function, provides better estimates and also satisfies the assumption of strict…

Professionals throughout the field of education agree on the importance of teacher-caregiver communication. Yet teacher education programs still do very little to prepare future teachers for these interactions. This exploratory study investigated the use of a standardized caregiver model, with 12 teacher education students involved in a simulated…

Using Excel, an interactive program is designed to simulate the Solow and endogenous growth models to facilitate the understanding of these models for students of growth theory and macroeconomics.

Glaciers are an excellent subject for elementary social studies classes. Their effects are easy for students to model with inexpensive teaching supplies, such as sand and ice. Students can conduct research nationally with virtual field trips or locally with real field trips. The models and research can be used as starting point for a discussion of…

The exponential function model of radioactive decay and the concept of a half-life are used in nuclear experiments that appear in introductory and intermediate laboratories. In our interactions with students, we have found that students at all levels have significant confusion about both the term exponential and what is meant by a half-life as…

THIS IS A FACTUAL CASE STUDY OF SOCIAL CHANGE IN A LARGE SUBURBAN SCHOOL DISTRICT EXPERIENCING CONFLICT BETWEEN THE SCHOOL BOARD, THE ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER OF THE SCHOOL SYSTEM, AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC DURING A PERIOD OF RAPID POPULATION GROWTH. THE STUDY TRACES THE HISTORY OF VARIOUS PROBLEMS ARISING FROM RAPID POPULATION GROWTH AND THE…

In view of the growing interest in and use of instructional simulations, a systematic approach to their development is described, including references to literature sources and to simulations already developed. Historical background, problems, and advantages of the use of instructional simulation are covered, and numerous definitions of often-used…

Characteristics of a simulation include: (1) a degree of analogy between the simulation activity and reality; (2) objectives at an appropriate level of application; and (3) participants dealing with the consequences of their actions. (STS)

Conventional two-group differential item functioning (DIF) analysis for dichotomous items is extended to factorial DIF analysis for polytomous items where multiple grouping factors with multiple groups in each are jointly analyzed. By adopting the formulation of general linear models, item parameters across all possible groups are treated as a…

A model of decision making in an organized anarchy, i.e., a very loosely structured organization. Possible application of this computer simulation model illustrated by comparison with university decision making. (RA)

Presents a nine-step process for designing simulation games for use by real-world clients in actual policymaking situations. For example, this design model could be used to produce a game for railroad company executives needing to explore the probable impact of railroad deregulation on its operation. (LLS)

Used computer simulation methods to examine the sensitivity of model fit criteria to misspecification of the first-level error structure in two-level models of change and to examine the impact of misspecification estimates on the variance parameters, estimates of the fixed effects, and tests of the fixed effects. Discusses problems caused by…

Studied the multiplicative gamma model for reading speed originally proposed by G. Rasch (1960/1980). Simulation results suggest that Rasch's extended multiplicative gamma model, if reasonably descriptive, allows for a simple and elegant analysis of test and item response times. (SLD)