Proposed two new indices to detect answer copying on a multiple choice test and conducted a simulation study to investigate the usefulness of both indexes. Discusses conditions under which the proposed indexes can be useful. (SLD)

Illustrates how commonly available structural equation modeling programs can be used to conduct some basic matrix manipulations and generate multivariate normal data with given means and positive definite covariance matrix. Demonstrates the outlined procedure. (SLD)

Examined two methods for fitting models of intrinsic dynamics to intraindividual variability data by testing these techniques' behavior in equations through simulation studies. Among the main results is the demonstration that a local linear approximation of derivatives can accurately recover the parameters of a simulated linear oscillator, with…

Studied planned incomplete data designs for the purpose of substantially reducing the amount of data required for multitrait-multimethod models. Simulations studied the effectiveness of Listwise Deletion, Pairwise Deletion, and the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm. Results indicate that EM is generally precise and efficient. (SLD)

Developed a hierarchal measurement model that enables researchers to measure a latent trait variable and model the error variance corresponding to multiple levels. This Rasch hierarchical measurement model results when a Rasch item response theory model and a one-way analysis of variance with random effects are combined. Two simulated data sets…

Proposed a new asymptotic formula for estimating the sampling variance of a correlation coefficient corrected for unreliability and range restriction. A Monte Carlo simulation study of the new formula results in several positive conclusions about the new approach. (SLD)

Analyzed the relations between two continuous response models intended for typical response items: the linear congeneric model and Samejima's continuous response model (CRM). Illustrated the relations described using an empirical example and assessed the relations through a simulation study. (SLD)

Proposed a maximum likelihood procedure for combining the standardized mean differences based on a noncentral-t-distribution and developed an EM algorithm. Simulation results favor the proposed procedure over the existing normal theory maximum likelihood procedure and the commonly used generalized least squares procedure. (SLD)

Investigated the effect of item parameter drift on ability estimates under item response theory, simulating item response data for two testing occasions for the two-parameter logistic model under several crossed conditions. Results show that item parameter drift under the simulated conditions had a small effect on ability estimates. (SLD)

Examined 20 goodness-of-fit indexes based on the minimum fit function using a simulation under the 2-group situation. Results support the use of the delta comparative fit index, delta Gamma hat, and delta McDonald's Noncentrality Index to evaluation measurement invariance. These three approaches are independent of model complexity and sample size.…

Tips include (1) don't confuse replication with simulation; (2) choose the right subject; (3) develop a design plan; (4) make trainees responsible for actions; (5) use symbols for emotionally charged ideas; (6) don't play games; (7) use nontrainees for realism; (8) assess performance appropriately; (9) alpha test in low-risk situations; and (10)…

Describes a simulation that can be used in the classroom to help clarify difficult concepts in protein synthesis. (ZWH)

Discussion of the design of games and simulations focuses on the fundamental defining features called deep structure. The two main levels of interaction in games and simulations are described; generalized reinforcers are discussed; types of defective contingencies are explained, including escape or avoidance behaviors; and the concept of negative…

Using simulated data modeled after real tests, a Thurstone method (L. Thurstone, 1925 and later) and three-parameter item response theory were compared for vertical scaling. Neither procedure produced artificial scale shrinkage, and both produced modest scale expansion for one simulated condition. (SLD)

Presents a three-way, three-mode extension of the two-way, two-mode hierarchical classes model of P. De Boeck and S. Rosenberg (1998) for the analysis of individual differences in binary object x attribute arrays. Illustrates the model with data on psychiatric diagnosis and discusses the relation between the model and other extant models. (SLD)