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This study reports empirical testing of the threshold traits level of the theoretical pyramid model of global leadership developed by Bird and Osland (2004). The research utilizes a pre-tested instrument to measure the manifest factors from survey data consisting of two independent samples of U.S. business professionals--those based in the United States with no previous international experience and U.S. expatriates based in Egypt. An exploratory factor analysis recommends the manifest factor loadings and these are used to conduct a confirmatory factor analysis to test the rigor of fit with the latent theoretical constructs of humility, integrity, inquisitiveness, and resilience. Finally, the authors conducted hypothesis testing on the items that entered the confirmed model across both samples. The results support three constructs of the threshold traits section of the Bird and Osland model (integrity, humility, inquisitiveness), while one of the constructs (resilience) is not as well supported. Additionally, by using previously published scales, the authors developed a single instrument that can be used as a screening tool for those seeking international assignments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although artificial neural networks (ANNs) are an established marketing support tool, they are criticised for their inability to explain their results. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a visual approach to ANN variable interpretation. Scanner data are used to build a well-known choice model, first as a multinomial logit and secondly as an ANN. Response elasticity graphs are then built for each ANN model variable. These graphs are used to interpret the model variables and are benchmarked against the t-statistics of the logit. The results suggest that modellers using this visual ANN approach can obtain a result that aids in variable interpretation and possibly provides a richer understanding of model behaviour than a standard statistical methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors examine question-order bias in computer-administered questioning (CAQ) by examining the responses of two survey groups. Each group rated two types of prod ucts with respect to various product attributes in a computer interactive mode. The two product sections of the survey appeared in different order for each survey group. The results suggest that question order has no effect in CAQ. In addition, the authors found that CAQ is not readily susceptible to fatigue. Keywords: computer-administered questionnaires, question-order bias, response fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The authors combine the resources of the Internet and World Wide Web with the group case teaching method to develop a globally interactive learning approach that unites students from five different colleges and universities. Students from Australia, Chile, Hong Kong, Mexico and the United States are placed into virtual groups to work an international marketing case. The students work within their virtual groups to answer assigned case questions. The questions require them to apply international marketing theory and share cultural as well as market information about their respective countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survey results of a nationwide sample frame did not differ from those of a statewide sample frame with respect to questions that were professional/procedural in nature or that dealt with putative industry knowledge. However, on questions that were attitudinal in nature, the sample frames differed significantly. Because of this, the authors conclude that using a geographically narrow convenience sample may or may not result in frame error, depending on the information being sought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]