The Rasch simple logistic model is used to examine the relative item parameter values of a personality inventory with respect to populations cross-classified by sex and country. While items conform to the model within each of the populations, half the items show significant discrepancies among the populations. (Author/RL)

Computer generated data are used to show that Slinde and Linn's criticism of the usefulness of the Rasch model for equating (EJ 189 585) may have been the result of an artifact produced by the manner in which the samples were chosen in their study. (CTM)

Summarizes the methodology and findings of a telephone survey conducted by Central Florida Community College to identify the educational needs of its service district. Discusses the role of an advisory committee in planning the study, the pilot testing of the questionnaire, interviewer training, publicity, funding, and costs. (JP)

Differences between means, variance, and correlation parameter estimates from a full school sample and samples restricted by parental consent were studied with 1,609 students at continuation high schools and 1,192 at traditional high schools. Sample bias due to consent policies may not be a substantive problem, especially if a telephone consent…

Tracking and two statistical methods (probability weighting and sample selection modeling) were studied as ways to minimize bias attributable to sample attrition in school-based studies. Data on student smoking from 30 middle schools illustrate that sample weighting yields the best results, with estimates superior to sample selection and much less…

Simple methods for detecting attrition (nonresponse) in longitudinal evaluations are reviewed, focusing on regression-based analyses of data from a longitudinal evaluation. The approaches are illustrated with data from the Fort Bragg Evaluation, an evaluation of a major demonstration in children's mental health services. (SLD)

Attribute sampling can be used to audit academic library collections, clarify cataloging and access problems, evaluate allocation strategies, and make collection development decisions. Attribute sampling involves randomly sampling the physical collection and catalog records to conduct relationship tests between them. Guidelines are provided for…

Demonstrates a statistically valid method allowing students to explore randomization. Described are two examples: counting techniques for a small set of data and simulation for a large sample. (YP)

Investigates the development of a perception of values in childhood. Perception of values is defined as being different than those of morality and conventions. Responses to seven scenarios are analyzed. Concludes that there is a distinct concept of values among children and that the instinct for this increases with age. (KO)

A pilot study involving 90 percent of the parents of 200 seventh graders attending two junior high schools evaluated the effectiveness of active versus passive methods of obtaining parental consent. Passive consent can provide a viable alternative to active consent when supplemented by appropriate backup and privacy safeguards. (TJH)

Presents the objective and methodology chosen for the construction of a global emissions source database called EDGAR and the structural design of the database system. The database estimates on a regional and grid basis, 1990 annual emissions of greenhouse gases, and of ozone depleting compounds from all known sources. (LZ)

Examines the potential for the replacement of CFCs for historic uses with substituting technologies. The potential production and emissions of the principal HCFCs and HFCs are calculated for the next 25 years. (LZ)

This meta-analysis found significant relationships between the experience of child sexual abuse and subsequent difficulties in psychological adjustment as measured by psychological symptomatology, depression, and self-esteem. Significant heterogeneity occurred across studies using different subject populations. Student samples consistently…

Describes advances in capture-recapture modeling, including the biologically motivated emphasis on model-based hypothesis testing and the development of models for spatially stratified populations. Discusses the severe problems associated with count statistics reflecting unknown sampling fractions. (67 references) (KR)

A method is proposed for constructing a population covariance matrix as the sum of a particular model plus a nonstochastic residual matrix, with the stipulation that the model holds with a prespecified lack of fit. The procedure is considered promising for Monte Carlo studies. (SLD)