Monte Carlo methods were used to study the accuracy and utility of estimators of overall error and error due to approximation in structural equation modeling. Effects of sample size, indicator reliabilities, and degree of misspecification were examined. The rescaled noncentrality parameter also was examined. Choosing among competing models is…

The psychometric properties of the Body Esteem Scale (BES) were studied with 255 girls and boys in grades 5 through 12. Internal consistency was found for the gender-specific subscales. Results provide preliminary evidence that the BES may be a psychometrically defensible assessment of body esteem among adolescents. (SLD)

Discusses the reliability and validity of the treatment decisions psychologists make. Presents research in this area. Asserts that in order to organize future research and the development of effective treatment practices, the technical adequacy of the professional decision-making process requires scrutiny. Provides guidelines for evaluating the…

Presents an assessment that examines prominent factors from the professional literature describing background and clinical characteristics of paraphilic individuals and sex offenders. Reliability and validity of measures in use are reviewed with suggestions for a battery of measures that offer some index of dangerousness and target for treatment.…

Explains that the concern of learning style research is to identify student characteristics, which are related to instructional methods and learning outcomes in educationally significant ways. Demonstrates that styles as measured by the Ego Inventory Instrument have some desirable reliability and validity qualities. Proposes that in addition to…

The response of the magazine "U.S. News and World Report" to criticism of its college ranking methodology included changes in the determination of indicators and reporting of data. However, the research still relies on subjective information, and its conclusions, therefore, are questionable. (Author/MSE)

Reviews the use of propositional analysis in library and information science research. Evidence that different analysts produce similar judgments about texts and use the method consistently over time is presented, and it is concluded that propositional analysis is a reliable and valid research method. An example of an analysis is appended. (32…

Investigated long-term stability of vocational interests in 409 college freshmen tested with Strong-Campbell Interest Inventory as freshmen in 1974, four years later (N=204), and in 1986. Results revealed remarkable degree of interest stability over all three time intervals and individual differences in stability over time. (Author/NB)

Recent establishment of degree programs in quality and reliability at several leading American academic institutions provides evidence that quality is making ivory tower in-roads. One critical difference in the orientations of U.S. and Japanese firms is in the shouldering of responsibility for product/service quality and reliability. (MLW)

The study assessed the efficacy of a method of quantifying observations of blind clients made by orientation and mobility instructors. Client problems were observed for street crossings, bumps, stumbles, orientation, and drop-offs. (DB)

A study of the reliability of teacher's interpretations of graphed performance data on students with moderate to profound mental retardation revealed that teacher judgments are consistent and accurate for continuous improvement in performance, but less consistent for variable performance. (MSE)

Presents the results of multiple regression analysis, test-retest analysis, reliability analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis of the Computer Attitude Scale in order to assess the instrument's predictive ability, construct validity, and reliability. Findings indicate acceptable characteristics, including stability…

Examines the validity of the White Racial Consciousness Development Scale (WRCDS). Participants (n=260) were administered the WRCDS and another instrument. Results suggest that the WRCDS lacks adequate reliability and concurrent validity and that the findings and future use of the instrument should be questioned. (RJM)

Focuses on regression effects that arise from measurement error, and examines methods used to evaluate pre- to post-therapy score changes that attempt to take these regression effects into account. Discusses statistical and practical problems, identifies and analyzes specific examples, and distinguishes objectives of these methods from other…

Suggests that assessment must be built into the curriculum and focused upon the kinds of skills students need. Considers much educational testing in writing to be reductionist, unrealistic, and detrimental to learning. Critiques writing assessment's trust and reliance on a single or small sample of student work collected and scored outside of a…