This study attempted to determine whether certain demographic factors, Intelligence Quotient tests, or achievement tests best predict achievement of second through fourth grade students. Findings suggest that the group mental ability test did not add to the knowledge gained from a comprehensive achievement testing program. (Authors/PP)

The various costs of Type I and Type II errors of inference from data are discussed. Six methods for minimizing each error type are presented, which may be employed even after data collection for Type I and which minimizes Type II errors by a study design and analytical means combination. (Author/CM)

To ascertain predictive relationships between and within cognitive tempo and cognitive level characteristics of moderately retarded children, the Matching Familiar Figures Test and Essential Math and Language Skills Inventory were administered. No significant predictive relationship from cognitive tempo to level was indicated, but elements of…

Measures of academic job involvement, verbal ability, academic performance, and satisfaction with courses and with college in general, obtained for 155 students during the freshman year, were correlated with attrition on a two-year followup. Freshman grade point average and satisfaction with college in general were two significant predictors of…

A study was conducted to determine variables which would predict smoking among 297 seventh graders and to test the validity of the variables in a followup one year later. The most valid predictors were number of friends and siblings who smoked and the intention to smoke in the future. (PP)

The relative influence of cooperative-competitive social orientation on school achievement for Anglo-American and Mexican-American children was assessed. The importance of competitiveness for Anglo-American children and the moderate relationship of other personality variables to achievement in both groups is shown. (Author/CM)

Examined the effectiveness of specific psychoeducational tutoring methods on achievement in reading, self-esteem, auding, and verbal language in 132 youths and adults reading below fifth level. Found subjects made significant improvement. Also tested the adequacy of a developmental reading model for adult illiterates. (Author/JAC)

Describes the Mathematics Anxiety Rating Scale for Adolescents (MARS-A). Discusses psychometric data that relate to reliability and construct validity of the MARS-A scale. Results showed the association between high mathematics anxiety scale scores and low grade average in mathematics courses reported on two samples of students. (Author/JAC)

Examined construction of different predictive models for readiness for first grade, using data from prekindergarten screening. Found 45.6 percent to 75.9 percent of the children correctly classified. Results indicate that less emphasis should be given to collecting historical screening data and that many social/emotional problems may go undetected…

Evaluated the Screening Test of Academic Readiness (STAR) using a sample of 28 third graders. The third graders' scores on the Peabody Individual Achievement Test were correlated with their total STAR scores from prekindergarten testing. Results showed the STAR is a useful instrument for predicting third grade achievement. (Author/JAC)

Analysis of 1976-78 data on rural Ohio school districts found that of six fiscal and demographic variables (geographic size, children with special needs, fiscal capacity, tax effort, total revenues, and excess staff over state minimum requirements), none could distinguish financially troubled from untroubled districts. (RW)

Reviews current knowledge on the encouragements and constraints affecting educational participation of older people. Reports the finding from a study of active older participants that content and sponsorship are the most important reasons for educational participation. (Author)

Examined the relationship between Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children scatter and school competence measures for 101 boys at risk for psychiatric disorder. Results suggested that the mean scatter variable is significantly higher in the high-risk group than in the intelligence test standardization sample. (Author)

Compared the mental health of the elderly living in three different environments: conventional community housing, subsidized housing, and institutions providing medical care. Mental health variables include autonomy and independence. Results indicated institutions do not appear to have better effects for their inhabitants given similar levels of…

Models the impact of three domains of environmental variables (ecological/architectural, psychosocial, and personal) on the mental health and well-being of 989 community-based rural elderly. Perceived environmental constriction, satisfaction with dwelling features, and satisfaction with community were the largest predictors of mental health.…