Symbolic Instruction Research Articles

A computer based decision-making model for poultry inspection

Summary In an attempt to develop a predictive model for poultry inspection at processing plants, a systems research design was developed to examine poultry population health dynamics from hatching to processing. Five cooperating Alabama poultry firms with 5 to 7 growers from each firm were identified to form the study unit. The farms were stratified to represent good, average, and poor producers. Via epidemiologic causal diagrams, variables with potential influence on poultry condemnation due to diseases were identified for hatchery, broiler, and processing subsystems. Field and/or laboratory data were generated for each study unit and for each variable. Using stepwise multiple regression and discriminant analysis, a predictor model with a multiple correlation coefficient (R) of 0.91 and multiple coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.82 was developed. A discriminant analysis model for classifying a flock into high or low condemnation group, using 0.1% to 2.0% as the demarcation line, was also developed. This latter model had overall correct classification probabilities ranging from 0.88 to 1.0. The 2 decision-making models were then computerized, using Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code (BASIC). On the day of processing, the grower provides the inspector with selected information, which is entered on a computer. Alternatives for scaled-down inspection or others are then systematically evaluated by the computer, and decision-making information is provided to the user.

Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code

Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code

Basic computer program for amino acid analysis data

A computer program for the reduction of output data from automatic amino acid analyzers has been written using the Beginners all Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code (BASIC) language. From input data consisting of integrator peak areas and sample weight and volume the program calculates μmoles of amino acids present in the run, total μmoles amino acids in the sample, minimal molecular weight, residue number composition, μmoles amino acid per milligram sample, grams amino acid per 100 g sample (% yield), and grams amino acid per 100 g protein.

Construction and Validation of Formal Reasoning Instruments

This report describes the construction and validation of paper-and-pencil instruments to test for formal operational thought. Three structurally parallel tests in three content areas and four Piagetian formal thought tasks were administered to 90 scholastically above-average adolescents of 13, 16, and 19 yr. Items were six-choice logic items with abstruse and absurd content. The reasoning tests had substantial content validity, modest concurrent validity, and limited construct validity. These formal reasoning tests could be employed by educators to select students who are capable of abstract conceptualization and theoretically might profit from a curriculum emphasizing symbolic and verbal instruction and an abstract mode of learning.

The Share 709 System: Machine Implementation of Symbolic Programming

As emphasized in the preceding paper, a fundamental requirement for effective utilization of high speed computing devices such as the 709 is a man-machine communication link that is at once rapid a...