Computing Mean Cost Ratings (MCR).

The Mean Cost Rating (MCR) measures the differentiation ability of those variables or groups of variables used in constructing parole prediction or base expectancy tables. The literature of the past two decades suggests that it represents perhaps the most satisfactory statistical index of predictive selectivity. Its use has been limited, however, by its complex method of computation. The MCR is explained and a simplified procedure for computing it is offered. In addition; the MCR is compared with Chi-square, the J-value, and the Index of Predictive Selectivity, which have also been used to determine the selective ability of factors in the construction of prediction tables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]