Forced classification: A simple application of a quantification method

This study formulates a property of a quantification method, the principle of equivalent partitioning (PEP). When the PEP is used together with Guttman's principle of internal consistency (PIC) in a simple way, the combination offers an interesting way of analyzing categorical data in terms of the variate(s) chosen by the investigator, a type of canonical analysis. The study discusses applications of the technique to multiple-choice, rank-order, and paired comparison data.This study was supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Grant No. A7942). Comments on the earlier drafts from anonymous reviewers and the editor were much appreciated.     

A simple proof of a personnel classification theorem

A simple algebraic proof of a theorem defining the optimal solution to the personnel classification problem is given. If a set of constants, one for each job, are known, the theorem indicates that each individual should be classified by adding the constants to the estimates of the individual's productivity in the several jobs and selecting the job for which the resulting sum is highest. The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not to be construed as reflecting official Department of the Army policy.     

A simple method of obtaining a ratio scaling of a hierarchy

Methods of scaling hierarchies given in the literature are ranking (Wolpe, 1958) and magnitude estimation (Wolpe and Lazarus, 1966; Wolpe, 1969). This paper describes how to obtain a ratio scaling from pair comparison ratio judgments of the individual items. Practical directions for the use of the method are given; the rationale is fully explained; modifications desirable with a large number of items are discussed; and applications are indicated.     

A simple method of factor analysis

A simple method for extracting correlated factors simultaneously is described. The method is based on the idea that the centroid pattern coefficients for the sections of unit rank of the complete matrix may be interpreted as structure values for the entire matrix. Only the routine centroid average process is required.     

A study of area conservation using a simple method of adjustment

The method of adjustment was adapted to study conservation of area with Papua New Guinea High School students. Subjects were shown a standard field, representing “a block of land”, with a “house” in each corner. An identical comparison field. with adjustable borders was presented under one of two conditions. In one condition the houses were placed along one side, and in the other they were placed randomly about the field. Non-conservers were invited to adjust the borders of the comparison field to match the area of the standard. Non-conservers in the Edge condition reduced, and those in the Random condition increased, the size of the comparison field.     

A method for investigating the sequential ordering of simple movement patterns: An IBM-based application using the Tecmar Labmaster

A computer program and hardware interface are described that enable the examination of various phenomena related to the organization of simple movement patterns. Components of the program focus on the tracking of serial stimulus events; the reproduction of varied sequential, rhythmic patterns; and the production of self-initiated rhythmic patterns. The program controls the input from and output to the parallel ports of a multifunction data acquisition expansion board via a custom-built circuit board.     

State-trace analysis: A method of testing simple theories of causation

An independent variable measures some aspect of a treatment applied to a person; a dependent variable measures some aspect of the treatment's effect upon the person. Two dependent variables will often covary with each other because they are affected by a common independent variable. A state trace is a graph which plots the value of one dependent variable as a function of another. (Thus, a state trace is a generalization of the yes-no receiver-operating-characteristic curve.) By appropriately analyzing state traces, it is possible to test theories concerning (a) the mechanisms by which independent variables affect dependent variables and (b) how these mechanisms differ from one population of persons to another. As an illustration, a study of long-term memory in normal persons, schizophrenics, and persons with organic brain syndrome is presented. The effects of number of word presentations and length of retention interval upon probability of word recall and recognition were investigated. The results were analyzed by state-trace analysis.     

Identifying decision strategies: A process- and outcome-based classification method

This article presents a classification method that makes possible the detection of important decision strategies that people use in nonrisky multiattribute decision tasks. The classification method incorporates a multimethod approach that combines elements of both structural modeling and process tracing. We begin with a discussion of nine common characteristics of decision strategies and then classify 13 decision strategies on the basis of these characteristics. Next, we demonstrate that six of the characteristics can be used to develop one outcome-based and three process-based metrics. In addition, we present an algorithm that shows how to use the metrics. We demonstrate that using our metrics in conjunction with a measure for direction of search allows identification of most of the 13 decision strategies. Finally, we outline the potential of our research for the design of decision support systems such as online shops.     

A simple general method for oblique rotation

A simple and very general algorithm for oblique rotation is identified. While motivated by the rotation problem in factor analysis, it may be used to minimize almost any function of a not necessarily square matrix whose columns are restricted to have unit length. The algorithm has two steps. The first is to compute the gradient of the rotation criterion and the second is to project this onto a manifold of matrices with unit length columns. For this reason it is called a gradient projection algorithm. Because the projection step is very simple, implementation of the algorithm involves little more than computing the gradient of the rotation criterion which for many applications is very simple. It is proven that the algorithm is strictly monotone, that is as long as it is not already at a stationary point, each step will decrease the value of the criterion. Examples from a variety of areas are used to demonstrate the algorithm, including oblimin rotation, target rotation, simplimax rotation, and rotation to similarity and simplicity simultaneously. While it may be, the algorithm is not intended for use as a standard algorithm for well established problems, but rather as a tool for investigating new methods where its generality and simplicity may save an investigator substantial effort.The author would like to thank the review team for their insights and recommendations.     

A simple method for pairwise monotone regression

A simple method of monotone regression is described based on the principle of minimizing pairwise departures from monotonicity.     

A simple method to stand outside oneself

Here we outline a simple method of using two mirrors which allows one to stand outside oneself. This method demonstrates that registration of vision with touch and proprioception is crucial for the perception of the corporeal self. Our method may also allow the disassociation of taste from touch, proprioception, and movement.     

A simple method for semiquantitative assessment of thermesthesia

A technically simple method based on the Peltier effect was employed to determine semiquantitatively thermesthesia in normal individuals, patients with functional disorders, and patients with cortical and spinal complaints and peripheral affections of the CNS. The results demonstrate the suitability of the method in principle for use in routine examination.     

一种简单有效的Q矩阵估计方法开发：基于非参数化方法视角

摘要：Q矩阵是认知诊断的基础,错误的Q矩阵会影响参数估计和被试诊断正确率,开发一种简单而有效的Q矩阵估计方法有助于Q矩阵的正确界定。相对于参数化的Q矩阵估计方法,本研究将海明距离（Hamming Distance,HD）用于Q矩阵估计,开发出一种简单有效的非参数化的Q矩阵估计方法。采用Monte Carlo模拟方法与实证研究相结合的研究范式,对该方法的科学性与合理性及其效果进行研究,研究结果发现（1）基于海明距离的Q矩阵估计法具有较高的估计正确率,并且该方法不受被试样本容量影响。（2）该方法简单易懂,运算时间短,是一种简单而有效的Q矩阵估计方法。（3）新方法对于Tatsuka（1990）分数减法测验的Q矩阵的估计准确率尚可,说明新方法在实践中具有较好的潜在应用前景与应用价值。