Software Reviews : Ex-Sample: An Expert System to Assist in Designing Sampling Plans,Version 1.4 Publisher: The Idea Works,Inc.,100 W. Briarwood,Columbia,MO 65203 (telephone: [phone]) Year of Publication: 1988 Materials: Three disks (5.25 inch,double sided,double density;3.5 inch also available;not copy protected),manual (59 pages,index) Price: $95 plus $5 shipping and handling,quantity discounts by application Machine Specificity: IBM PC or compatible System Requirements: 640K,two disk drives or one floppy drive and a hard disk,DOS 2.1 or higher Effectiveness: Good User-Friendliness: Good Documentation: Good

Abstract

EX-SAMPLE uses artificial intelligence techniques to facilitate sample size determination in social and behavioral science research projects. The program encourages systematic attention to the numerous factors that should be but rarely are considered in determining sample size. EX-SAMPLE users simply respond to a series of questions; however, answering these questions still requires substantial methodological sophistication. EX-SAMPLE has limited potential for enhancing classroom instruction.