How accurately ability is estimated when the test model does not fit the data is considered. To address this question, this study investigated the accuracy of the maximum likelihood estimator of ability for the one-, two- and three-parameter logistic (PL) models. The models were fitted into generated item characteristic curves derived from the…

A model of field instruction for bachelor of social work (BSW) students was studied. Objectives were: to examine selected agency indicators of practica satisfaction, determine the extent of integration between field practica and other social work courses, ascertain the contribution of the social work curriculum in preparing students for their…

Research models and the issue of public/private utilization of research are discussed, along with implications for development research in Africa. The following types of research are distinguished: policy research, sectoral research, academic research, and consultancy-related research. Three research paradigms are identified: (1) the ideal…

The study tested the Andersen-Newman causal model of social service use as a means of determining patterns for social service use by Mexican American elderly. The model was shown to have applicability for identifying common and unique determinants of service use. Thirty-seven variables and data from a 1979-80 15-state survey were selected to form…

A general framework is outlined for describing the relationship of cognition to brain systems. The model provides for empirical investigations at many levels--computational, chronometric, spatial imaging, and cellular--and argues for the logical interrelationship of these areas of investigation. It is applied to selective visual-spatial attention…

This paper outlines a model that could address the interaction between an adolescent's social and personal environment and the impact that this interaction could have on an adolescent's social and psychological adjustment. In addition, a set of mediating variables based on an adolescent's self-concept was presented and discussed. The unique aspect…

A case study design that included classroom observation, repeated self-assessments, and formal interviews was used in a training workshop for 11 preservice teachers. The intent was to train them to use dramatic activities with secondary school students in their own classrooms. The training incorporated elements of theory, demonstration, peer…

The accelerating diffusion of broadband Internet access provides many opportunities for the development of pedagogically robust Web-based instruction (WBI). While the supporting technology infrastructure of broadband disseminates, the attention of academic researchers focuses upon issues such as the drivers of student usage of WBI. Specifically,…

Blended learning basically refers to using several methods for teaching. It can be thought to be a learning program where more than one delivery mode is being used with the ultimate goal of optimizing the learning result and cost of program delivery. Examples of blended learning could be the combination of technology-based resources and…

Drawing upon experimental work in different history departments, Mark Cottingham explores "assessment for learning" principles in practice. He raises the problem of a clash between these approaches and the progression model inherent in the National Curriculum Attainment Target, and, crucially, the way in which history departments are…

Major areas of concern of Pennsylvania school food service management--student participation, labor cost, food cost, and uses of management information--are analyzed and recommendations are made. The management information study is an analysis of the findings from a six-county sample survey of record keeping practices and personal perceptions of…

As colleges have grown in size and complexity, there has been an increasing need for student personnel workers to deal with demands for service, requests for grants and loans, and pressures from outside agencies. Routine tasks, however, do not fully utilize the talents of professionally trained activities personnel. These professionals can, and…

This interim report describes the progress of a Florida study to identify teaching competencies for teachers of preschool through grade six. Development and operation of the model for the study consisted of four phases: (1) generating and compiling a list of competencies from classroom teachers, through interviews and classroom observation; (2)…

This workbook is intended to help decision makers in a school district make informed decisions concerning possible adoption or modifications of the Far West Laboratory Experience-Based Career Education program (FWL-EBCE). The workbook presents procedures and guidelines for (1) deciding whether the FWL-EBCE program, or some adaptation of it, is…