A procedure is described for minimizing a class of matrix trace functions, which is a refinement of an earlier procedure for minimizing the class of matrix trace functions using majorization. Several trial analyses demonstrate that the revised procedure is more efficient than the earlier majorization-based procedure. (SLD)

Combines institutional economics with aspects of contract law and organization theory to identify and explicate the key differences distinguishing three generic forms of economic organization: market, hybrid, and hierarchy. These generic forms are distinguished by different coordinating and control mechanisms and by different abilities to adapt to…

Examines mathematical relationships among three methods for statistical analysis of treatment by replication experiments involving message variables: ignoring them in the statistical analysis; treating them as levels of a fixed effect; or treating them as levels of a random effect. Finds the third method is the only one offering a reasonable test…

The fundamental problems that ipsative measures impose for factor analysis are shown analytically. Normative and ipsative correlation matrices are used to show that the factor pattern induced by ipsativity will overwhelm any factor structure seen with normative factor analysis, making factor analysis not interpretable. (SLD)

Illustrates that a variety of statistical methods are being used to analyze data from individual Likert-type items in the "Journal of Agricultural Education." Explores which methods are most appropriate and looks at the bases for determining which method to use. (Author/JOW)

Quantitative research methods produce factual, reliable, and generalizable data. Qualitative methods generate rich, detailed, valid process data. Ways to integrate them include (1) using qualitative methods to develop quantitative instruments; (2) using qualitative methods to explain quantitative findings; (3) using quantitative methods to…

Attempts to estimate a critical level of market concentration within the educational sector for Kentucky. The critical Herfindahl was estimated at 0.50. Counties experiencing a Herfindahl index at or above this number can expect, on average, a 1.6 percentage point decrease (or a 3% reduction) in student achievement scores. (MLH)

The need for formal quantification of conversational analysis is discussed. Formal quantification provides grounds that a body of research be taken seriously and gives it a certain relevance. At the same time, the constraints inherent in working with naturally occurring events, such as conversations, make formal quantification difficult. (49…

Discusses a serious problem that has existed for years in language research with regard to the use of the inferential statistic known as the t test. (12 references) (JL)

Presents strengths and limitations of covariance structure analysis (CSA), statistical procedure for testing hypotheses about relations among psychological constructs, as way to test structural hypotheses that are not tested adequately with other statistical procedures. Provides two empirical examples that illustrate use of CSA for evaluating…

Responds to counterpoints to original paper (Moon, Dillon, and Sprenkle, 1990). Describes continuum of social science inquiry paradigms as framework for exploring assumptions underlying respective positions. Addresses key issues raised by respondents and encourages balance in research efforts and continuing dialogue. Restates basic thesis that…

Compares two statistical approaches to modeling growth across time: the multilevel model and latent curve analysis. A longitudinal data set from a school-based substance-use-prevention model for adolescents (2,779 students) illustrates differences and similarities between the approaches and shows very compatible results for both. (SLD)

Examines 19 troublesome variables in the cohort-survival method of calculating future grade-by-grade school enrollment. Each variable is viewed as capable of confounding the accuracy of the most carefully calculated forecast of future school enrollment, but once found and corrected, enhances forecasting accuracy. (GR)

Examines the possibility of supplementing conventional pedagogic methods with information technology-based teaching aids in the instruction of quantitative methods to undergraduate students. Considers the case for a problem-based learning approach, and discusses the role of information technology. (Author/LRW)

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)