The performance of information retrieval systems varies significantly by test topics. Even for those systems that have performed well on average, the results for some difficult topics are still poor. Previous studies have revealed that different optimization techniques should be used for those difficult topics. However, a prerequisite of the…

A common reason for not participating in intimate partner violence (IPV) research is thought to be fear for one's safety. However, little is known about those who do not participate due to safety fears. To better characterize this population, we investigated correlates of being "not safe" to answer the optional IPV module in the 2006…

The perfunctory use of factor scores in conjunction with regression analysis is inappropriate for many purposes. It is suggested that factoring methods are most suitable for independent variable sets when some consideration has been given to the nature of the domain, which is implied by the predictors. (Author/BW)

Compares approaches to modeling ordinal outcome variables, including assumptions, interpretations, and limitations. Explores how the multiple regression approach with ordinal level data can compromise the understanding of the effects of the independent variables and of the ordinal level response. Provides applications with data from a multisite…

The uses and restrictions of commonality analysis are described. Commonality analysis has been increasingly used as a method to examine the relative importance of independent variables, through the partitioning of variance among the variables of the regression equation into unique and common components. The effects of all other independent…

This paper presents two major criticisms of the construct validity investigation of the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities conducted by Watkins and Wiebe (1980). The criticisms pertain to the nature of the data presented and the accuracy and appropriateness of the statistical procedures employed. (BS)

Factor scale scores are sometimes used as weights to create composite variables representing the variables included in a factor analysis. If these composite variables are then used to predict some dependent variable, serious theoretical and methodological problems arise. This paper explores these problems and suggests strategies for circumventing…

The value of variance is emphasized, and the element of design, frequently not adequately understood, is clarified to underscore the importance of variance to the researcher. Two analytic methods, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple regression, are discussed in terms of how each uses/applies variance. Advantages and major difficulties with…

Discusses the concept of temperament interactions in the context of statistical interaction. Categorizes temperament interactions that involve temperament as an independent variable, as a dependent variable, or as both. Describes use of hierarchical multiple regression for the analysis of temperament interactions. (Author/CI)

Data in Yarworth and Gauthier's article on student self- concept and participation in school activities (EJ 189 606) were reanalyzed by Walsh and Winne (TM 505 375). Yarworth and Gauthier's criticism of the reanalysis (TM 505 376) is answered. (GDC)

Winne and Walsh's Reanalysis (EJ 229 157) of Gauthier and Yarworth's study of self-concept and participation in high school activities (EJ 189 606) is addressed, particularly with respect to the statistical techniques used. The intentions of the original article are also clarified. (GDC)

The inclusion of unmeasured variables in path analyses in educational research is discussed. The statistical basis for inclusion is presented, along with several examples. (JKS)

Yarworth and Gauthier (EJ 189 606) examined whether self-concept variables enhanced predictions about students' participation in school activities, using unstructured stepwise regression techniques. A reanalysis of their data using hierarchial regression models tested their hypothesis more appropriately, and uncovered multicollinearity and…

Reviews several potential problems that often invalidate statistical tests of social theories. Discusses how there may be very serious identification problems in the estimation of the relationship between executions and homicides, and that serious questions may be raised regarding the validity of any particular estimation of this relationship.…

An "undesigned" experiment is one in which the predictor variables are correlated, either due to a failure to complete a design or because the investigator was unable to select or control relevant experimental conditions. The traditional method of analyzing this class of experiment--multiple regression analysis based on a least squares…