A generalized variance criterion is proposed to measure efficiency in item-response-theory (IRT) models. Heuristic arguments are given to formulate the efficiency of a design in terms of an asymptotic generalized variance criterion. Efficiencies of designs for one-, two-, and three-parameter models are compared. (SLD)

A method is suggested to estimate the relationship between a latent trait and one or more manifest predictors without estimating subject parameters. The method, developed for the Rasch model, can be generalized to two-parameter and three-parameter logistic latent trait models. The model is illustrated with simulated and empirical data. (SLD)

Discusses sampling of circulation data as a technique for library media program management. Highlights include random and purposive sampling techniques; studies of circulation samples; factors affecting circulation patterns; guidelines for sampling circulation statistics over shorter time periods; and an example using statistics gathered from an…

Review of research investigating gender differences in computer-related behavior examines statistical and methodological flaws. Issues addressed include sample selection, sample size, scale development, scale quality, the use of univariate and multivariate analyses, regressional analysis, construct definition, construct testing, and the…

This review addresses several key issues in research on the potential relationship between programing language instruction and problem solving. Issues associated with problem-solving theory, expertise, transfer of training, treatment-related issues, language-related issues, and sampling are considered. Treatment-related and language-related issues…

College and university fund raisers are encouraged to test various strategies for direct-mail solicitation by comparing variations of five factors that influence direct mail response: copy; timing; package; offer; and list. Suggestions include forming a hypothesis, testing one variable at a time, choosing test and control groups carefully,…

Evaluates an interactive, Web-based tutorial that helps students learn about sampling distribution. 111 students enrolled in statistics or research methods courses used either the tutorial or attended a lecture/demonstration. Indicates through pre- and post-test quizzes both groups learned comparable amounts and reveals students' ratings of both…

Introduces the concepts of online and offline sampling and highlights the role of online sampling in agent-based models of learning and development. Compares the strengths of each approach for modeling particular developmental phenomena and research questions. Describes a recent agent-based model of infant causal perception. Discusses limitations…

The Cognition Rating Form (CRF), a scoring measure for the Rotter Incomplete Sentences Blank, was evaluated with 56 adolescent psychiatric patients and 102 high school controls. Concurrent validities and sensitivity rates indicated that the CRF shows promise as a thought sampling scoring measure. (SLD)

Examined methodological issues related to the detection and evaluation of behavioral toxicity in infants and children, focusing on the selection of appropriate variables and strategies to control for confounding, sampling strategies and the problem of "overcontrol" for confounding; and the evaluation of dose-response relations and…

The study probed the management of non-instructional time by undergraduates in Southern Nigerian Universities. A research question was raised and one hypothesis was proposed for the study. All undergraduates in ten Southern Nigerian Universities during the 1999/2000 session comprised the population of the study. The sample was made up of 535…

Entry into professions, such as medicine, law, and the clergy, is typically controlled. In contrast, evaluation has multiple pathways leading into the field. For evaluators, a graduate degree from a university program is one of several ways to become an evaluator. What university programs exist to prepare evaluators and what is their nature? In…

A model of identity formation comprising four structural dimensions (Commitment Making, Identification with Commitment, Exploration in Depth, and Exploration in Breadth) was developed through confirmatory factor analysis. In a sample of 565 emerging adults, this model provided a better fit than did alternative two- and three-dimensional models,…

The proliferation of students with psychiatric disabilities and the severity of the issues they present pose significant challenges to campus personnel and specifically to student affairs staff. This study identified the specific types of critical incidents related to students with psychiatric disorders that senior student affairs officers found…

Complex survey designs often employ multistage cluster sampling designs and oversample particular units to ensure more accurate population parameter estimates. These issues must be accommodated in the analysis to ensure accurate parameter estimation. Incorporation of sample weights in some statistical procedures has been studied. However, research…