Using data from multiple informants has long been considered best practice in education. However, multiple informants often disagree on similar constructs, complicating decision-making. Polynomial regression and response-surface analysis (PRA) is often used to test the congruence effect between multiple informants on an outcome. However, PRA…

We investigated the classification accuracy of learning disability (LD) identification methods premised on the identification of an intraindividual pattern of processing strengths and weaknesses (PSW) method using multiple indicators for all latent constructs. Known LD status was derived from latent scores; values at the observed level identified…

The argument-based approach to validation involves two steps; specification of the proposed interpretations and uses of the test scores as an interpretive argument, and the evaluation of the plausibility of the proposed interpretive argument. More ambitious interpretations and uses tend to involve an extended network of inferences and assumptions…

In this article, the authors provide an overview of behavior screening tools available, including free and commercially available options. Next, the authors offer step-by-step procedures for (a) selecting, (b) scheduling, (c) preparing, (d) administering, and (e) scoring and interpreting behaviors screening tools. The authors conclude with…

This paper describes an ePortfolio implementation strategy at Federation University Australia, Victoria (formerly the University of Ballarat). The authors combined a personal and practical viewpoint to elicit pitfalls, challenges, and recommendations for improvement. The paper is divided into three main areas in order to outline the experiments…

This article contrasts 2 approaches to analyzing transitivity of preference and other behavioral properties in choice data. The approach of Regenwetter, Dana, and Davis-Stober (2011) assumes that on each choice, a decision maker samples randomly from a mixture of preference orders to determine whether "A" is preferred to "B." In contrast, Birnbaum…

Comments on the article by E. Brandstatter, G. Gigerenzer, and R. Hertwig (2006). Resolution of debates in cognition usually comes from the introduction of constraints in the form of new data about either the process or representation. Decision research, in contrast, has relied predominantly on testing models by examining their fit to choices. The…

Written for both parents and educators who work with children of advanced abilities, the authors present practical strategies to identify and nurture exceptionally high ability in children. They promote the "mastery" (rather than the "mystery") model of gifted education, and challenge several common practices and assumptions. They offer ways to…

A major purpose of this study was to measure and compare the effectiveness of office procedures, model office, and cooperative office education courses in developing 12th grade students' office decision-making abilities as well as to compare their decision-making abilities with those of office supervisors and office workers. Two other purposes of…

A decision-making or utility theory model (which deals effectively with affirmative action goals and allows standardized tests to be placed in the service of those goals) is discussed as an alternative to traditional predictive admissions. (Author/PN)

The personnel decision principally treated in this paper is that of remedial placement. The decision made with respect to candidates is to accept or reject, and performances by candidates are evaluated as pass or fail. A criterion and a selection variable were assumed, and the problem is to choose a cutting score on the selection variable such…

A study was conducted to investigate learner control of instruction in contrast to response sensitive branching algorithms with respect to two specific types of instructional decisions: (1) whether a student should enter and study a particular instructional module given his score on an associated diagnostic pretest; and (2) when a student should…

Testing models of three instructional programs (Individualized Prescribed Instruction, Program for Learning in Accordance with Needs, and Mastery Learning) are described and compared. Several important lines of research that could contribute significantly to the quality of testing and decision-making within the context of these and other…

Educational resources are scarce and should be used efficiently. To do this, decision-makers in higher education need clearly defined objectives, creatively elaborated alternatives, and information about the costs and effectiveness of those alternatives. This paper describes a new management tool which is designed to provide better information…

Possible bias in admissions decisions on the basis of sex is analyzed. The methods of testing for bias and the results thereof for graduate academic programs at the University of California, Davis, are reported. Differences in the quality distribution, based on grade point average, between male and female applicants are incorporated. (MLW)