The purpose of this paper is to review and critique a groundbreaking research report. The research article under review in this paper is: "A Big Apple for Educators: New York City's Experiment with Schoolwide Performance Bonuses: Final Evaluation Report" (see ED521920). In 2007-08, a program called the Schoolwide Performance Bonus…

Critiques "The Statistical Analysis of Quasi-Experiments" by Achen and examines its relevance for historians. Discusses the problems that arise when quasi-experiments involving nonrandom assignment or nonrandom selection are analyzed as if they were true experiments. Concludes that Achen's book will help historians recognize these…

This book is a solid introduction to applied statistics emphasizing computational statistics that can be done with a simple calculator. Because of the progress in speed and power of computers since the first edition in the 1970s, the book is behind in giving information on practical computation. (SLD)

This review of Data Desk Professional, a statistical software package for Macintosh microcomputers, includes information on: (1) cost and the amount and allocation of memory; (2) usability (documentation quality, ease of use); (3) running programs; (4) program output (quality of graphics); (5) accuracy; and (6) user services. In conclusion, it is…

The Jansen and Roskam (1986) approach to joining categories of graded responses presents valid arguments that are subject to empirical test. The multiplicative Poisson (MPM) model of D. Andrich can be seen as an approximation to the continuous response model of Muller (1987). An extension of the MPM is suggested. (SLD)

These further remarks on the nondichotomization of graded responses attempt to clarify the differences in perspective between the two previous articles. The special case of the multiplicative Poisson model reveals why the joining assumption and dichotomization are not, in general, properties of the unidimensional Rasch model. (SLD)

Cites several strengths of Upcraft and Schuh's book: (1) presents a context for using assessment in settings other than higher education; (2) communicates clearly and concisely; (3) acquaints the novice with qualitative and quantitative research; (4) provides useful information on assessment instruments; and (5) emphasizes importance of using…

SOLAS is a general-purpose program for univariate statistical analysis with the ability to perform multiple imputation (MI) for dealing with missing data. Several completed data sets can be obtained and analyzed separately, and results can be combined so that extra variability due to missing data is taken into account. (SLD)

Addresses the criticisms and points made by S. Michelson and V. Willson and N. Kellow, demonstrating weaknesses in their analyses and defending the original study of the relationship between per capita income and the scores of 10th graders on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment in mathematics. (SLD)

Asserts that editors should declare their expectations publicly and expose the rationale for editorial policies to public scrutiny. Supports effect size reporting and the reporting of score reliabilities. Argues against stepwise methods. Also discusses the interpretation of structure coefficients and the use of confidence intervals. (SLD)

Replies to Bruce Thompson's positions on research methodology and editorial policy, addressing each of these issues in the ongoing discussion: (1) structure coefficients; (2) stepwise regression; (3) test reliability; (4) effect sizes; and (5) meta-analysis. (SLD)

Agrees with the conclusions of C. Bolon about the relationship between per capita income and school mean grade mathematics grade 10 scores on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment but takes issue with the methodology, considering it inadequate to support the conclusions. (SLD)

The book reviewed is a compendium of current thinking about measurement theory and test use. It includes content by 26 authors at 3 levels: (1) accessible to educators, policy makers, and graduate students; (2) suited for technical students; and (3) written for qualified measurement specialists. Strengths and weaknesses are noted. (SLD)

In a recent report, Lewis Solmon, Kern Paark, and David Garcia (2001) seek to identify the impact of attending charter schools on student achievement using data from Arizona. Based on a sophisticated statistical analysis, these authors report that charter school attendance increases test score gains of students. This note raises some questions…

Raises concerns about the procedures used and conclusions drawn in C. Bolon's article on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System 10th grade mathematics tests. Bolon's conclusions do not follow from his data, as described. (SLD)