Introduces a new technique for estimating the parameters of models with continuous latent data. To streamline presentation of this Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method, the Rasch model is used. Also introduces a new sampling-based Bayesian technique, the DA-T-Gibbs sampler. (SLD)

This article describes methodological strategies, decisions, and issues that emerge when conducting qualitative research. In particular, topics such as situating the research design, sampling considerations, data collection methods, and the analytic and interpretive process are explored. Examples from published research are provided to illustrate…

Discusses some key statistical concepts in probabilistic and non-probabilistic sampling to provide an overview for understanding the inference process. Suggests a statistical model constituting the basis of statistical inference and provides a brief review of the finite population descriptive inference and a quota sampling inferential theory.…

Used two experiments to assess extent to which introductory psychology students' self-selection into experiments produced biased samples. Students chose between apparently different experiments with different descriptions and between individual and group sign-up slots. Results demonstrated that students sorted themselves into experiments and into…

Standards relating to sampling methodology are summarized, deviations from these standards in a random sample of 30 research reports are identified, and specific recommendations for improving sampling methods to enhance research applicability for practice are made. A high proportion of the studies examined had at least one major sampling…

The sampling variability and zeta-values of parameter estimates for misspecified structural equation models were examined. A Monte Carlo study was used. Results are discussed in terms of asymptotic theory and the implications for the practice of structural equation models. (SLD)

A method is presented for determining sample size that will achieve a pre-specified bound on confidence interval width for the interrater agreement measure "kappa." The same results can be used when a pre-specified power is desired for testing hypotheses about the value of kappa. (Author/SLD)

Simplicity and efficiency in design and estimation are all important in deciding on sampling strategies. A simple model is given and illustrated for four practical situations to show how a good sampling strategy should be selected. (Author)

Use of the bootstrap method in a canonical correlation analysis to evaluate the replicability of a study's results is illustrated. More confidence may be vested in research results that replicate. (SLD)

Reviews the research on sampling for daily newspapers and explores various sampling techniques for weekly newspapers. Contrasts different sample types to assess their utility in representing weekly newspaper content. Uses five content measures and tests three sampling techniques: simple random sampling and two "constructed year" samples,…

Conceptual rationales from five research contexts are presented, which all posit unmeasured variables that interact with observed independent variables to produce a complete model of the dependent variable. Strategies for overcoming related difficulties are outlined, including increased longitudinal assessment, oversampling of levels of…

This article presents a rationale for improving descriptions of samples of persons with learning disabilities in research reports. Guidelines resulting from a working conference of journal editors in the field of learning disabilities are presented. The guidelines aim to allow for study-to-study comparisons and actual replications. (JDD)

Examined psychotherapy studies published in "Journal of Counseling Psychology" (JCP) and "Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology" (JCCP) between 1978 and 1992. Found that JCP published mostly process, outcome, and analogue research, whereas JCCP published mostly outcome research. Most process and process-outcome studies across journals were…

A theory of visual information acquisition and visual memory is described that conjoins two models that have been used to describe low-level perceptual and higher level cognitive processes. Six experiments with 21 adult observers generally support the theory, although some weakness is discussed. (SLD)

A new approximation is proposed for testing the equality of "k" independent means in the face of heterogeneity of variance. Monte Carlo simulations show that the new procedure has nearly nominal Type I error rates and Type II error rates that are close to those produced by James's second-order approximation. (SLD)