Despite a surge of empirical work on student participation in online learning environments, the causal links between the learning-related factors and processes with the desired learning outcomes remain unexplored. This study presents a systematic literature review of approaches to model learning in Massive Open Online Courses offering an analysis…

This paper discusses how a seldom-used statistical procedure, recursive regression (RR), can numerically and graphically illustrate data-driven nonlinear relationships and interaction of variables. This routine falls into the family of exploratory techniques, yet a few interesting features make it a valuable compliment to factor analysis and…

Presents two methods for including weights in distance-based nonlinear multivariate data analysis. One method assigns weights to the objects, while the other is concerned with differential weighing of groups of variables. Discusses applications of these weighting schemes and proposed an algorithm to minimize the corresponding loss function. (SLD)

Provides a nontechnical explanation of the family of multivariate statistical techniques known as multidimensional scaling (MDS). Explains the purpose of MDS, and the advantages of using these techniques in the study of musical perception. Discusses two approaches to the interpretation of MDS solutions. Lists examples of musical studies using MDS.…

Homogeneity analysis (multiple correspondence analysis), which is usually applied to "k" separate variables, was applied to sets of variables by using sums within sets. The resulting technique, OVERALS, uses optimal scaling. The corresponding OVERALS computer program minimizes a least squares loss function via an alternating least…

Two techniques compose a new methodology for studying certain classes of qualitative information: the F-sort task for data collection and latent partition analysis for data summarization. A detailed presentation is given of its application to a study of teacher's views of facilitating student learning in the classroom. (Author/LMO)

The structure of occupational values is investigated using several analytical techniques. Data from the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Information Network (O*NET) describing need reinforcers for 900 occupations are examined using exploratory factor analysis, cluster analysis, and multidimensional scaling. Results indicated broadly defined…

Researchers evaluated the construct validity of attitude measures containing feeling, belief, and intention-to-act components. Evidence strongly suggests that treating these three factors as unidimensional concepts is inadequate for measuring health attitudes--a multidimensional approach is needed. (PP)

Critical review of previous techniques for the measurement of an individual's self-concept (SC) is a necessary prelude to the development of more adequate methodologies. This paper focuses on recent methodological innovations in the study of the self, namely, those derived from cognitive social psychology. A view of the self as a cognitive…

This report contains accounts of studies, about scales to be used in the "A Study of Schooling" research project, undertaken to derive indices for constructs presumed to be measureable by composites of items. The report is introduced by a discussion on the rationale for selecting the research methodology used and an explanation of the…