The distinction between Type 1 and Type 12 sampling in connection with measurement data is discussed, and a method is presented for simulating data arising from Type 12 sampling. A Monte Carlo study is described that shows conditions under which precise confidence level control under Type 12 sampling is maintained. (SLD)

Derived a confidence interval for a ratio of correlated mean absolute deviations. Simulation results show that it performs well in small sample sizes across realistically nonnormal distributions and that it is almost as powerful as the most powerful test examined by R. Wilcox (1990). (SLD)

Explores posterior analysis in estimating factor score in a confirmatory factor analysis model with polytomous, censored or truncated data, and studies the accuracy of Bayesian estimates through simulation. Results support these Bayesian estimates for statistical inference. (SLD)

Presents a hierarchical Bayes approach to modeling parameter heterogeneity in generalized linear models. The approach combines the flexibility of semiparametric latent class models that assume common parameters for each subpopulation and the parsimony of random effects models that assume normal distributions for the regression parameters.…

This paper investigates methods that avoid using multiple groups to represent the missing data patterns in covariance structure modeling, attempting instead to do a single-group analysis where the only action the analyst has to take is to indicate that data is missing. A new covariance structure approach developed by B. Muthen and G. Arminger is…

A new item-fit index is proposed that is both a descriptive measure of deviance of single items and an index for statistical inference. This index is based on assumptions of the dichotomous and polytomous Rasch models for items with ordered categories. A simulation study is described. (SLD)

Several recent studies have investigated the application of statistical inference procedures to the analysis of differential item functioning (DIF) in test items that are scored on an ordinal scale. Mantel's extension of the Mantel-Haenszel test is a possible hypothesis-testing method for this purpose. The development of descriptive statistics for…

Studied the impact of changes in item difficulty on National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) estimates over time through a Monte Carlo study that simulated the responses of 1990 NAEP mathematics respondents to 1990 and 1996 NAEP mathematics items. Results support the idea that these changes have not affected the NAEP trend line.…

Four measurement designs are presented for use with correlation coefficients corrected, in one variable, for attenuation due to unreliability (partially disattenuated). Associated asymptotic variance/covariance expressions are presented. Empirical simulation results illustrate the satisfactory Type I error control and statistical power of the…

Procedures based on latent trait models and the Rasch model are described for computation and asymptotic statistical inference for two decision consistency indexes often used in mastery or competence testing. Simulations were conducted for typical mastery testing situations to illustrate the procedures. (SLD)

School-effectiveness research is constrained by ambiguous factors of effectiveness and a lack of theory. This paper presents findings of a study that used simulation to improve school-effectiveness theory. Simulation is also used to explore the direct effects of schools on individual learning. After introducing simulation models, the paper…

Statistical significance is misused in educational and psychological research when it is applied as a method to establish the reliability of research results. Other techniques have been developed which can be correctly utilized to establish the generalizability of findings. Methods that do provide such estimates are known as invariance or…

Maintains that literacy and informed decision making in an uncertain world require the ability to reason statistically. Describes a course designed to help students use statistical concepts as tools for social reasoning within simulations of real-world problems. Describes four types of instructional activities used. (CFR)

A basic technical framework is provided for the design and use of mastery tests. The Mastery Testing Project (MTP) prepared this framework using advanced mathematics supplemented with computer simulation based on real test data collected by the South Carolina Statewide Testing Program. The MTP focused on basic technical issues encountered in using…