Human Rights and the Global Campaign for Peace Education

International Review of Education -     

Estimating Causal Effects of Education Interventions Using a Two-Rating Regression Discontinuity Design: Lessons From a Simulation Study and an Application

A valuable extension of the single-rating regression discontinuity design (RDD) is a multiple-rating RDD (MRRDD). To date, four main methods have been used to estimate average treatment effects at the multiple treatment frontiers of an MRRDD: the “surface” method, the “frontier” method, the “binding-score” method, and the “fuzzy instrumental variables” method. This article uses a series of simulations to evaluate the relative performance of each of these four methods under a variety of different data-generating models. Focusing on a two-rating RDD (2RRDD), we compare the methods in terms of their bias, precision, and mean squared error when implemented as they most likely would be in practice—using optimal bandwidth selection. We also apply the lessons learned from the simulations to a real-world example that uses data from a study of an English learner reclassification policy. Overall, this article makes valuable contributions to the literature on MRRDDs in that it makes concrete recommendations for choosing among MRRDD estimation methods, for implementing any chosen method using local linear regression, and for providing accurate statistical inferences.     

Career Development Programs in Corrections

Currently there is a need for more concerted attention to career development in corrections settings. Limited research has demonstrated that comprehensive programming focusing on career development issues is a method by which recidivism rates may be reduced. The current literature review explains and clarifies the need for such programming in prison settings and provides practical programming considerations for professionals interested in this area. Current programs targeting career issues are described in addition to an explanation of the limited history of career programming in corrections. Also included are potential resources and recommendations for practitioners.     

Holland's theory and effective use of computer-assisted career guidance systems

A variety of client characteristics, drawn primarily from John Holland's theory and constructs, were used to examine client reactions to using a computer-assisted career guidance system. The subjects were 206 individuals who sought assistance at a university-based career center. A regression analysis revealed that persons with higher Social and Enterprising scores rated the system lower on its ability to help them acquire self and occupational knowledge.Reprint requests should be directed to the senior author at the Career Center, R-28, 224 Bryan Hall, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-1035.The Computer-Assisted Career Guidance Evaluation Form is available from the authors at the above address.     

Effects of social psychological phenomena on school psychologists’ ethical decision-making: a preliminary empirical analysis

This preliminary, exploratory study examines the impact of select social psychological phenomena on school-based ethical decision-making of school psychologists. Responses to vignettes and hypothetical statements reflecting several social psychological phenomena were collected from 106 practicing school psychologists. Participants were asked to respond by indicating the degree to which their actions in such a scenario would be influenced by the particular phenomenon being represented. Results indicate that some of these social psychological influences are present in the daily work of the school psychologist.