Proposes elements of a model of knowledge structures used in comprehending and generating graphs. Uses the competence model to attempt to organize and interpret findings on misconceptions in graphing. Discusses two types of common misconceptions; treating the graph as a picture and slope-height confusions. (YP)

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…

Describes a study that empirically tested the citation behavior model of Moravcsik and Murugesan and examined the hypothesized relationships between three variables: reported citation type, reported utility level, and citation location. It is concluded that studies focusing on elements of information cited are needed to develop models reflecting…

Ten activities classifying buttons are presented. Additional suggestions are given for using children's literature and for how to begin. (MNS)

Reports results of a study that analyzed two samples of essay-type examination answers and their connections with the grades obtained by Finnish high school graduation candidates. A two-way classification scheme is described where both the subject matter base and the type of information processing were taken into account. (nine references) (LRW)

Explored the relationship between the emergence of operational thought and the development of taxonomic categories in 101 first-graders. Concrete operational subjects showed a greater appreciation than preoperational subjects for taxonomic relations involving atypical exemplars. (RJC)

Maintains that the definitions of what constitute primary and secondary sources in historical studies are arbitrary and oversimplified. Proposes three major categories and provides examples of each. Stresses the importance of these classifications in teaching students to be discriminating in their search for historical truths. (RW)

Describes a study that supported two hypotheses concerning the use of anaphors in information retrieval: first, that anaphors tend to refer to integral concepts rather than peripheral concepts; second, that various term weighting schemes are affected differently by anaphoric resolution. The implications for the use of anaphoric resolution for…

Explores the underlying concepts involved in the design of art scholarly databases and describes three systems definition projects currently in progress. The discussion covers the revisions of MARC formats and authority controls used in bibliographic information networks that might support an art scholarly database. (eight references) (CLB)

A taxonomy of 43 rules for writing multiple-choice test items is presented, based on a consensus of 46 textbooks. These guidelines are presented as complete and authoritative, with solid consensus apparent for 33 of the rules. Four rules lack consensus, and 5 rules were cited fewer than 10 times. (SLD)

A new type of gifted underachiever, the child who excels in regular education but becomes discouraged and withdraws from challenges in special gifted programs, is described. Coping and self-evaluation strategies to help the child are discussed. (MSE)

Describes the results of a survey of library schools that examined the prevalence and extent of instruction in cataloging three dimensional objects and faculty perceptions of such instruction. The discussion covers the effects of a possible print bias on library school graduates. (12 references) (Author/CLB)

Attempted to determine whether 170 third and sixth graders would benefit from the simultaneous use of 2 mnemonic strategies. Findings suggest that categorical sorting and active rehearsal combine to facilitate recall performance. (RJC)

Perceptual categorization and consistency of synthesized speech was studied with 10 normally articulating children (aged six-seven), 10 children producing /r/ misarticulations (aged five-eight), and 18 adults. Results revealed that variability in stimulus response was influenced primarily by subjects' productive ability, whereas differences in…

A typology of the influencing strategies used in academic decision making in higher education institutions is proposed, then applied to one university program development project. The typology assumes two basic influence modes (pressure and legitimization) and seven types of organizational resources (expertise, money, information, time, rules,…