This article describes the analysis of regression-discontinuity designs (RDDs) using the R packages rdd, rdrobust, and rddtools. We discuss similarities and differences between these packages and provide directions on how to use them effectively. We use real data from the Carolina Abecedarian Project to show how an analysis of an RDD can be…

Two commentaries describe some shortcomings of a recent discussion of the significance testing of R-squared by C. J. Huberty and upward bias in the statistic. Both propose some modifications. A response by Huberty acknowledges the importance of the exchange of ideas in the field of data analysis. (SLD)

Suggests that there is a tendency in social science and program evaluation to adhere to some methodological practices by force of custom rather than because of their reasoned applicability. These ideas include regression artifacts, random measurement error, and change or gain scores. (Author/SLD)

Agrees with L. Mohr that researchers are too quick to assume that measurement error is random, but disagrees that the idea of regression toward the mean has been a distraction and the notion that change scores analysis should be avoided in favor of regression analysis. (SLD)

Responds to C. S. Reichardt's discussion of regression artifacts, random measurement error, and change scores. Emphasizes that attention to regression artifacts in program evaluation is almost bound to be problematic and proposes some arguments in support of this position. (SLD)

This textbook is intended for a course in applied regression for upper-division undergraduates and first-year graduate students and is designed to require only mathematics at a high school level. Teachers should find it a useful resource. (SLD)

Comparison of three microcomputer statistical packages, SPSS, SAS, and BMDP, focuses on ease of use, ease of learning, documentation, accuracy, similarity to the mainframe version, and speed. The results of eight statistical multivariate analyses used to evaluate their performance are given. (LRW)

Three aspects to be considered when teaching a one-semester beginning economics statistics course are coverage, mastery, and applications. There is a difference between coverage and mastery. Moreover, mastery is not an end in itself; instructors must consider how statistics courses will influence students' approaches to other subjects and…

The Exstatix statistical analysis software package by K. C. Killion for use with Macintosh computers is evaluated. In evaluating the package, the framework developed by C. J. Ansorge et al. (1986) was used. This framework encompasses features such as transportability of files, compatibility of files with other Macintosh software, and ability to…

Analyzes the findings of J. Greene and data from Florida and suggests that the strong effects (significant improvement on test scores in schools threatened by vouchers) noted by Greene may actually be due in large part to sample selection, regression to the mean, and problems related to the aggregation of test score results. (Author/SLD)

Re-analyzes data from Florida public schools and offers a different perspective and alternative explanation for the pattern of test score improvements among low scoring schools in Florida. Shows that the most dramatic improvements were achieved by targeting a minimum passing score on the writing test. (SLD)