The vocabulary of sampling is examined in order to provide a clear understanding of basic sampling concepts. The basic vocabulary of sampling (population, probability sampling, precision and bias, stratification), the fundamental grammar of sampling (random sample), sample size and response rate, and cluster, multiphase, snowball, and panel…

Various classroom uses of simulation of random phenomena with a table of random digits are described. Examples are given to illustrate the mathematics of simulation. (MP)

A problem of considerable importance in certain educational settings is determining how many items to include on a mastery test. Applying ranking and selection procedures, a solution is given which includes as a special case all existing single-stage, non-Bayesian solutions based on a strong true-score model. (Author/JKS)

Describes demonstrations of the risky shift phenomenon in eight social psychology classes of undergraduate and adult education students. Results showed that the phenomenon can be successfully and reliably demonstrated in a classroom. (CK)

Several models of grading variability are presented. It is shown that study of the models brings out some of the implications of various grading systems. (MK)

Pre-written, supporting conversational programs written in BASIC are available for use in introductory statistics courses designed for college undergraduates and high school seniors. (MM)

This study with 45 institutionalized individuals with mental retardation and self injurious behavior (SIB) calculated conditional probability using sequential analysis techniques. It found that successive episodes of self-injury were sequentially dependent and this association was not related to frequency or rate of occurrence. The best predictor…

The seven articles in this edition show that cost-benefit analysis is emerging from the confusion of the 1980s and is probably going to become the central tool of program evaluation in the future. The modern approach involves incorporating probability distributions into the cost-benefit analysis. None of the articles are specifically…

Examples used to illustrate Simpson's paradox for secondary students include probabilities, university admissions, batting averages, student-faculty ratios, and average and expected class sizes. Each result is explained. (DC)

Simple experiences with probability can extend third graders' understanding of the need for fractions. Three activities are given which build on language-arts experiences and incorporate concepts in multiplication, graphs, and fractions. (MNS)

Discusses the probability of seeing a tire explode or disintegrate while traveling down the highway. Suggests that a person observing 10 hours a day would see a failure on the average of once every 300 years. (MVL)

Presents mathematics activities for grades three through six that focus on concepts of probability and fairness. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Presents activities that center on the excitement of going back to school by collecting and analyzing data and exploring probabilities. Contains reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Discusses ways to simulate a probability problem of interest to middle school students in which students calculate the average number of packets of trading cards purchased to obtain a complete set of cards. Simulations utilize a spinner, a table of random numbers, and a computer. Includes the BASIC program utilized in the simulation. (MDH)

Explores applications of the Fibonacci series in the areas of probability, geometry, measurement, architecture, matrix algebra, and nature. (MDH)