Some Remarks on the Expected Mean Squares in Analysis of Variance in the Assessment of Individual Differences in Learning

Abstract

Leicht, et al. (1978) proposed that learning units, e.g., lists, passages, be randomization units, rather than learners (subjects) as is typical, so that the significance of trial-learner interactions can be tested with analysis of variance. In an illustrative application of the suggested rearrangement, learners were arbitrarily selected (fixed-effects factor). If the investigator wishes greater generalizability of individual differences in learning, learners must be randomly selected from a specified population (random-effects factor). The appropriate expected mean squares and tests of significance are presented for both models and subsequent comments are made.