Given the number and variety of components underlying performance in two clusters of tests, i.e., embedded-figures and adjustment tests, an understanding of the high-order construct field dependence and of its relationship to other cognitive, personality, and performance dimensions requires the execution of comprehensive studies. (Author)

Teachers must be an integral part of the inservice education planning process if it is to be important to professional growth. When planning issues are seen as important, inservice education should focus on planning and classroom design. The second correlation is weighted on inquiry and concept development. (JAC)

A survey done properly by accepted and scientifically justifiable techniques can provide information on behalf of the goals of institutional advancement in academe. Deficiencies in institutional research are seen as the result of the lack of guidance on survey design, questionnaire construction, or problem definition in education research texts.…

A strategy for evaluating/modifying covariance structure models (CSMs) is presented. The approach uses recent developments in estimation under nonstandard conditions and unified asymptotic theory related to hypothesis testing, and it determines the extent of sample size sensitivity and specification error effects by relying on existing statistical…

Examines patterns of television viewing and viewing motivations for the "PTL Club" in light of the recent PTL scandal. Extracts the ritualized user and a modified version (curious consumer) of the instrumental user only. Discusses implications for the future of religious television. (SR)

Path Analysis of Covariance Matrix (PACM) is described as a way to separately estimate measurement and structural models using standard least squares procedures. PACM was empirically compared to simultaneous maximum likelihood estimation and use of the LISREL computer program, and its advantages are identified. (SLD)

Discusses three research/testing interfaces in second-language (L2) testing: the covariance structure analysis of ex post facto correlational data, the qualitative investigation of test-taking processes, and the development of L2 assessment instruments based on developmental sequences in L2 acquisition. (61 references) (GLR)

Focuses on the role of communication competencies in superiors' overall judgments about the performance of subordinates. Finds that superiors' perceptions of subordinates' specific communication competencies are related to the superiors' overall perceptions of subordinate performance. (MS)

This comparison of two approaches to the development of computerized supports for decision making--expert systems and multivariate models--focuses on computerized systems that assist professionals with tasks related to diagnosis or classification in human services. Validation of both expert systems and statistical models is emphasized. (39…

Examines responses to graphic horror films based on gender and personality variables. Results indicate that responses to horror movies are largely determined by gender-specific rules for social conduct. (MW)

Investigated the effects of biomedical and social-environmental conditions on cognitive and language development in children toddlers. Hypothesized a strong effect of biomedical factors in first two years and a strong environmental influence at three years. Used analysis approach to estimate variables assumed to underlie measurement data. Results…

Discusses the nature, power, and limitations of four multivariate techniques: factor analysis, multiple analysis of variance, multiple regression, and multiple discriminant analysis. Shows how decision trees assist in interpreting results. (SK)

The representation of multivariate data by icons is discussed. The factorial sun is suggested as superior to the commonly used snowflake or sun icons and as better representing the values of the different variables and their correlational structure. Two experiments with 60 college students demonstrate the factorial sun's superiority. (SLD)

Multivariate permutation tests are described, and some are suggested as substitutions for Hotelling's one-sample T2 test in common situations in behavioral science research. A Monte Carlo study shows advantages of these tests when the T2 test fails or is suspect. (SLD)

A method is presented for determining the optimal number of conditions to use in measurement designs when resource constraints are imposed. The method is illustrated using a multivariate two-facet design, and extensions to other designs are discussed. (SLD)