Latent semantic analysis (LSA)

Cross Sources:  Computer-based testing Definition:  A kind of machine learning that simulates the human brain's understanding of the meaning of words and paragraphs. LSA is currently being successfully employed in the rating of short writing samples. Reference:  Knowledge Analysis Technologies, (2001).

Latent variable

Cross Sources:  Structural Equation Modeling Definition:  A factor or indirectly observable variable Reference:  Maruyama, G.M (1998).

Learning

Cross Sources:  Student outcomes Definition:  The process by which a relatively lasting change in potential behavior occurs as a result of practice or experience Reference:  Stratton, P., & Hayes, N. (1993).

Learning communities

Cross Sources:  Student learning Definition:  Concurrent student enrollment in two or more disciplines connected by a common theme; sometimes targeted to a particular student group such as entering freshmen Reference:  Palomba, C.A., & Banta, T.W. (1999); MacGregor, J., Cooper, J.L., Smith, K.A., & Robinson, P. (2000).

Learning gain

Cross Sources:  Value-added, Astin's I-E-O model, Longitudinal designs, Pre and Post test Definition:  A positive change in learning outcomes measured following instruction or educational experiences are often referred to as learning gains; difference between pretest and posttest; longitudinal change Reference:  Astin, A. (1970).

Learning outcomes

Cross Sources:  Outcome Definition:  Refers to the specific knowledge or skills that students actually develop though their college experience Reference:

Lifelong education

Cross Sources:  Assessing general education Definition:  As a result of their college experience, students should have a commitment to lifelong learning. Students with this commitment will express an openness and desire for intellectual experiences, express confidence in their ability to independently acquire new knowledge, and project a life of learning activities. Intellectual curiosity or intrinsic motivation to learn. Reference:  Maw, W.H., & Maw, E.W. (1961).

Lifelong Learning

Cross Sources:  Curiosity; Workplace Skills Definition:  The need for incumbent workers to continuously develop new technical skills and competencies as industry and technology changes and/or as workers change jobs Reference:  Case, T.L., Price, B.A., & Rogers, C.F. (1997).

Likert

Cross Sources:  Rating scale Definition:  An item type used on objective measures allowing respondents to indicate their level of agreement with a statement by marking their response on a five point scale, usually ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree. Reference:  Crocker, L.M., & Algina, J. (1986).

Listening skills

Cross Sources:  Communication skills Definition:  Listening involves attending to and interpreting verbal messages from other people. Reference:  Ruben, B. D., & Stewart, L. P. (1998).

Longitudinal data

Cross Sources:  Panel data, Change, Value added, Longitudinal change, Pre and post test Definition:  Data collected on the same individuals over time for use in a longitudinal study Reference:

Longitudinal study

Cross Sources:  Time series analysis Definition:  A study that investigates development, learning, or other types of change in individuals over time Reference:  Stratton, P., & Hayes, N. (1993).

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For any comments regarding new terms or suggested definitions for this Dictionary, please write to :   assessment@jmu.edu. Thank you.