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A Simple Technique for Improving the Quality of Parameter Estimates in Learning Hierarchy Validation Studies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2025

Alan R. Barton
Alan R. Barton*
Affiliation:
Adelaide College of the Arts and Education
*
Requests for reprints should be sent to Alan R. Barton, Adelaide College of the Arts & Education, Holbrooks Road, Underdale, SOUTH AUSTRALIA 5032.
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Abstract

Learning hierarchy research has been characterized by the use of ad hoc statistical procedures to determine the validity of postulated hierarchical connections. The two most substantial attempts to legitimize the procedure are due to White & Clark and Dayton & Macready, although both of these methods suffer from serious inadequacies. Data from a number of sources is analyzed using a restricted maximum likelihood estimation procedure and the results are compared with those obtained using the method suggested by Dayton and Macready. Improved estimates are evidenced by an increase in the computed value of the log likelihood function.

Keywords

restricted optimization
Type
Notes and Comments
Information
Psychometrika , Volume 45 , Issue 2 , June 1980 , pp. 269 - 271
Copyright
Copyright © 1980 The Psychometric Society

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References

Reference Notes

White, R. T. Learning graphical skills in kinematics, 1971, Clayton, Victoria: Monash University.Google Scholar
Linke, R. D. The effects of certain personal and situational variables on the acquisition sequence of graphical interpretation skills, 1973, Clayton, Victoria: Monash University.Google Scholar

References

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