The difference between statistical significance and substantive significance is discussed. (DB)

Two studies were conducted to compare responses to matrix questionnaires with those to standard questionnaires. In the first study, the matrix format produced significantly fewer returns. A second study comparing matrix and standard questionnaires of equal size found similar response rates but more incomplete returns for the matrix form.…

Bechhofer's procedure for selecting the population with the largest mean from among several populations with known variances is discussed as it applies to the problem of selecting the bivariate normal population with the largest correlation coefficient. Tables of appropriate sample sizes are provided and an example is discussed. (Author/JKS)

A computer program to perform multiple-group factor analysis is presented. Written in Fortran Four, the program has a special feature to handle variables with strong negative correlations. (Author)

The objective of this paper is to review the outputs of selected computer programs often used to carry out a "discriminant analysis" with respect to two purposes of such an analysis, discrimination and classification. The programs selected are three BMD programs. (Author/JKS)

Two approaches to regression-based reading-level-match research designs, one of which used matched Rasch-scaled "w" scores, were tested with 544 primary grade children of different reading levels. Results call into question the conclusion that orthographic skills are compensatory for reading-disabled children. (SLD)

Reviews current computer-assisted scoring (CAS) systems and reviews the current practice of validating CAS-system generated scores. Also presents a conceptual framework and general recommendations for designing validation studies for CAS procedures. (SLD)

Presents fourth editorial in series, this one describing research design and explaining its relationship to statistical design. Research design, validity, and research approaches are examined, quantitative research designs and hypothesis testing are described, and control and statistical designs are discussed. Concludes with section on the art of…

Suggests that, by looking for commonalities and differences across settings, tasks, working methods, goals, and values, a framework for understanding collaboration can be constructed that preserves the benefits of rich descriptive accounts of collaboration. Emphasizes the importance of multiple definitions and multiple models of collaborative…

Compared the power of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and two types of randomized block designs as a function of the correlation between the concomitant variable and the outcome measure, the number of groups, the number of participants, and nominal power. Discusses advantages of ANCOVA. (Author/SLD)

Contrasts ideas of culture in social constructionist and cultural study research designs, addressing how each type of design impacts issues that can be analyzed in research studies. Explores implications for objectivity and validity in speculative cultural study research. Suggests how technical writing can be constituted as an object of study…

Describes the design, implementation, and release of the 1999 National Household Education Survey (NHES). Includes discussion of the goals of the survey, selection of survey topics, and design of the survey instruments. (Author)

This article addresses the characterization and circumvention of E. H. Simpson's paradox in designs involving two ordered variables and illustrates the recommended procedure using a two-sample application involving estimation of correlation and a single-subject application involving the estimation of lag(1) autocorrelation. (Author/SLD)

Purpose. Even though consumer-directed care models are being advocated for use among elder populations, there are few data on the extent of elder interest in participating in the management of community long-term-care services, who they want involved in making these decisions, or their perceptions regarding the relative importance of different…