Responds to an article on top-down versus bottom-up analyses of interlanguage data in second language acquisition research that argues in favor of using multifactorial frequency data analyses over multiple chi-squares to take into account dependence and interaction of the frequency data. (Author/VWL)

Examination of the coding of interview data in studies of the aspirations of British Muslim girls and transition to math teaching compared manual and electronic methods. Choice of methods depended on the size of the project, funds, time, and research expertise. (SK)

Employs statistical tools to determine whether the digits of Pi are pseudorandom. Discusses the difficulties in answering this question. (Author/NB)

Studied gender effects on false belief development among children ages 2 to 6 years. Found a slight advantage for girls on false belief task performance in both datasets that was apparent in younger but not older children. Language ability could be controlled only in a small subsample and cannot be ruled out as a mediator to this effect. (JPB)

The problems posed for latent variable analysis by populations with different sets of parameter values are discussed. An overview of methodology to address heterogeneity is presented, including a review of structural modeling by the multiple indicator-multiple causes model and the use of the LISCOMP computer program. (SLD)

This article comments upon the use of qualitative research in physical education, exercise, and sport science. Topics include unresolved methodological problems, data analysis, and the scope of qualitative research. (IAH)

Asserts that, despite its growing popularity, there still exists confusion about the nature and proper use of logistic regression in family studies. Presents nontechnical discussion of logistic regression, with illustrations and comparisons to better-known procedures. Concludes that logistic regression can be powerful statistical procedure when…

Briefly describes core ideas behind LISREL (linear structural relationship) approach for studying structural models. Addresses some common issues with which family investigators deal, focusing on problems that researchers often face; questions they raise; and decisions they need to make in the process of model specification, estimation,…

Notes that researchers are often required to examine specific model under two different situations. Cites studies in which authors compared results descriptively without use of inferential statistics. Describes use of series of regression tests to compare two situations statistically. Gives example from recent study to illustrate technique.…

Describes several activities of the Data and Chance program involving third and fourth graders. Students use real-life situations to investigate probability. (MKR)

The Organizational Elements Model is a framework for assessing payoffs from organizational efforts such as training and human resource development, both to an organization and externally. It depicts what should/could be and what is for outcomes, outputs, products, processes, and inputs. (SK)

"Black box" evaluation considers program input and outcomes (what) without considering process (how and why). A broader approach to evaluation based on implementation process theory explores the social system context of programs and provides information useful for improving them. (SK)

Discusses the use of value-added analyses of science examination data. (MKR)

A recent Delphi study on recreational boating safety priorities of 94 safety experts is used to illustrate the utility of applying the modified scree test to Delphi data. The scree test does not oversimplify decisions and can be applied to fairly complicated data. (SLD)

Provides critical analysis of Edwards (1992) presentation of a set of examples from the Child Language Data Exchange System as prototypes of bad transcription practice. The analysis argues that Edward's approach causes the development of an overly rigid set of principles that could stop progress in the analysis of spontaneous language samples.…