Generated data to simulate multidimensionality resulting from including two or four subtopics on a test. DIMTEST analysis results suggest that including multiple topics, when they are commonly taught together, can lead to conceptual multidimensionality and mathematical multidimensionality. (SLD)

A specialized training program at Lake Superior College in Duluth, Minnesota, prepares rescue workers for aircraft disasters. Simulators provide opportunities for hands-on training. (JOW)

Studied four different approaches for handling missing data for their capacity to mitigate against the effect of omitted responses on person location estimation. Results from a Monte Carlo study show that the hot-decking procedure performed best of the methods examined. (SLD)

Developed a hybrid procedure for number correct scoring that uses test item weights based on multidimensional item response theory and total test scores based on classical true score theory. Simulation results show that all scoring methods in the study generated estimated and true scores that were highly correlated, but the hybrid method resulted…

Tested empirically the applicability of a method developed by S. Mattson for generating data on latent variables with controlled skewness and kurtosis of the observed variables. Monte Carlo simulation results suggest that Mattson's method appears to be a good approach to generate data with defined levels of skewness and kurtosis. (SLD)

Reviews efforts to develop computer-based, case-management simulations for use in training rehabilitation counselors. Describes exemplary systems. Discusses issues related to research and development of computer software in case-management training. (Author)

The Feature Integration Theory of visual search proposed by A. M. Treisman and others (1980, 1986) is reviewed, and a modified Guided Search theory is presented in which the parallel stage guides the serial stage as it chooses display elements to process. A computer simulation illustrates the theory. (SLD)

Discusses the new venture decision process and reports on the development and results of this innovative decision exercise designed to help entrepreneurship students experience the process firsthand. (Author)

A bidimensional 2-parameter logistic model was applied to data generated for 2 groups on a 40-item test. Item parameters were the same across groups; correlation across the 2 traits varied. Results indicate the need for caution in using item-response theory (IRT)-based invariance indexes with multidimensional data for these groups. (TJH)

An alternate type of simulation was developed that might make the study of accounting more relevant and the retention of the material greater. Half of the students completed a conventional business practice set; half created a simulated business, designed an accounting system, and constructed transactions. (JOW)

A split-sample replication stopping rule for hierarchical cluster analysis is compared with the internal criterion previously found superior by Milligan and Cooper (1985) in their comparison of 30 different procedures. Situations under which the methods are equivalent or not equally useful are discussed. (SLD)

Computer simulations are described in which pairs of simulated individuals in groups play a prisoner's dilemma game, with the choice to cooperate determined by one of three simple heuristics. Results reveal that the prevalence of cooperation depends on the heuristic used, value of the payoff, and the social comparison process. (SLD)

The parallel distributed processing model of visual word recognition in reading developed by Seidenberg and McClelland (1989) is extended through simulation. A response by Seidenberg and McClelland recognizes merits of the expanded model and outlines requirements for supplanting their original model. (SLD)

Type I error rates for the Mantel-Haenszel (MH) statistic were within nominal limits when the MH procedure was compared with the simultaneous item bias (SIB) method for detecting differential item functioning. Results with data simulated for 1,296 conditions found Type I error rates slightly higher than expected for SIB. (SLD)

Discussion of the use of consensus-building techniques to resolve public policy disputes focuses on the use of a simulation of the conflict that needs to be resolved. An example is given of the National Energy Policy Simulation that was designed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)-Harvard Public Disputes Program. (38 references)…