For estimation of heterogeneity variance T[superscript 2] in meta-analysis of log-odds-ratio, we derive new mean- and median-unbiased point estimators and new interval estimators based on a generalized Q statistic, Q[subscript F], in which the weights depend on only the studies' effective sample sizes. We compare them with familiar estimators…

An interval estimation procedure is discussed that can be used to evaluate the probability of a particular response for a binary or binary scored item at a pre-specified point along an underlying latent continuum. The item is assumed to: (a) be part of a unidimensional multi-component measuring instrument that may contain also polytomous items,…

Most of the social science research is based on the implied assumption that measurement error is the same across key socio-demographic groups and all differences in key statistics of interest are real. Nevertheless, there is evidence that this is not the case. In this paper, the authors tackle this important topic by investigating if data quality…

In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), some subjects assigned to the treatment condition may not fully comply. Often there is interest in the effect of the treatment within the "principal stratum" of subjects who would comply if assigned to treatment. However, it is unknown which control subjects would have complied if treated and which…

Educational assessment tests are designed to measure the same psychological constructs over extended periods. This feature is important considering that test results are often used for admittance to university programs. To ensure fair assessments, especially for those whose results weigh heavily in selection decisions, it is necessary to collect…

We consider two-level models where a continuous response R and continuous covariates C are assumed missing at random. Inferences based on maximum likelihood or Bayes are routinely made by estimating their joint normal distribution from observed data R[subscript obs] and C[subscript obs]. However, if the model for R given C includes random…

We address measurement error bias in propensity score (PS) analysis due to covariates that are latent variables. In the setting where latent covariate X is measured via multiple error-prone items W, PS analysis using several proxies for X--the W items themselves, a summary score (mean/sum of the items), or the conventional factor score (i.e.,…

BASIE is a framework for interpreting impact estimates from evaluations. It is an alternative to null hypothesis significance testing. This guide walks researchers through the key steps of applying BASIE, including selecting prior evidence, reporting impact estimates, interpreting impact estimates, and conducting sensitivity analyses. The guide…

The finite population correction (FPC) factor is often used to adjust variance estimators for survey data sampled from a finite population without replacement. As a replicated resampling approach, the jackknife approach is usually implemented without the FPC factor incorporated in its variance estimates. A paradigm is proposed to compare the…

This Monte Carlo simulation study compares methods to estimate the effects of programs with multiple versions when assignment of individuals to program version is not random. These methods use generalized propensity scores, which are predicted probabilities of receiving a particular level of the treatment conditional on covariates, to remove…

There has been some research in the use of propensity scores in the context of measurement error in the confounding variables; one recommended method is to generate estimates of the mis-measured covariate using a latent variable model, and to use those estimates (i.e., factor scores) in place of the covariate. I describe a simulation study…

The statistical concept of sampling is often given little direct attention, typically reduced to the mantra "take a random sample". This low resource and adaptable activity demonstrates sampling and explores issues that arise due to biased sampling.

When a multisite randomized trial reveals between-site variation in program impact, methods are needed for further investigating heterogeneous mediation mechanisms across the sites. We conceptualize and identify a joint distribution of site-specific direct and indirect effects under the potential outcomes framework. A method-of-moments procedure…

Drawing parallels to classical test theory, this article clarifies the difference between rater accuracy and reliability and demonstrates how category marginal frequencies affect rater agreement and Cohen's kappa. Category assignment paradigms are developed: comparing raters to a standard (index) versus comparing two raters to one another…

Power analysis is a fundamental prerequisite for conducting scientific research. Without power analysis the researcher has no way of knowing whether the sample size is large enough to detect the effect he or she is looking for. This paper demonstrates how psychometric factors such as measurement error and equating error affect the power of…