K. Dunning

Generalized pearson distributions and nonlinear programing

A generalization of the Pearson curves is obtained as the solution to the differential equation which best fits a histogram in the mean square and satisfies certain statistical constraints, e.g., the mean and variance may be prescribed. Φ is the theoretical distribution defined on the intervel is a rational function with numerator and denomenator orders of mand n, respevtively. The values of the coefficients in are obtained from a Powell minimization of the mean-square value plus sum-of-squares constraints. Excellent fits are obtained effciently which, furthermore, are capable of providing an analytical representation of an infinite tail. An accurate initial approximation of for starting the Powell minimization is obtained from a symbol manipulation code in PL/1—Formac and based on the visual decomposition of a histogram into sums of normal curves.

Developing Asynchronous MBA Courses in the World Wide Web

This article describes the use of the Internet and the World Wide Web for the asynchronous delivery of MBA coursework. The planning and implementation processes are described, as are resources used to implement content creation and design of the delivery system. A Web committee was created to appraise the need for consultants, set priorities for course development, recommend content design, recommend hardware and software for delivery and student access, and study security for examinations.

West Point Market: Managing a challenge from the EEOC

Russell Vernon, a second-generation owner and manager of West Point Market in Akron, Ohio, must decide whether to settle, go to court, or reconcile (mutually agreeable solution) with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on an allegation of racial discrimination. He firmly believes that he is innocent. If he chooses to reconcile or settle the case out of court, he could be construed as a racist. If he chooses to go to court and loses, he may lose his family business. This emotionally charged situation is presented as a management decision that must be based on an analysis of the facts. The case is especially interesting due to the perceptions that students have of “the role of governmental agencies” and “the use of racial-based quotas in the workforce.”