Abstract ABSTRACT: The currently prescribed method of dealing with potentially dilutive securities in earnings per share calculations is reconsidered in light of the more recent development of equilibrium pricing models for options and convertible securities. This new treatment of an old problem offers a theoretical structure founded upon recent developments in finance. It is shown that fairly precise statements about the timing of voluntary conversion or exercise of potentially dilutive securities are often possible. Moreover, assessments of the probabilities of future stock prices reaching levels which would allow conversion or exercise can be derived from a widely used stochastic model of security price behavior. Some implications for policy are discussed.

Abstract ABSTRACT: Previous analytical work has shown that a firm's cash recovery rate (the ratio of cash recovery during a period to gross investments outstanding during the period) is related to the internal rate of return of firm projects in the event that the firm reinvests all of its cash flows. This paper extends the previous analytical work by establishing a link between a firm's cash recovery rate and the internal rate of return of firm projects in circumstances when the firm does not reinvest all of its cash flows. Additionally, this paper applies the extended model to a group of firms in order to obtain estimates of their internal rates of return. Work of this kind would seem to be of particular interest to economic researchers who are interested in theoretically defensible empirical measures of firm profitability.

Abstract Reviews the book "Computer Guide '81," by J. Efrim Boritz.

Abstract ABSTRACT: Although "compressed-course" offerings are widely found in summer programs and intersessions, little published work has evaluated the efficacy of this format relative to conventional term courses, apparently because the controls necessary for strict comparative research are difficult to implement. This study involved such a comparison between several sections of two accounting courses offered under the most compressed format possible and under a regular semester. All aspects of the courses were virtually identical. Evaluation was in terms of (a) terminal performance, (b) post-course student reactions, and (c) comparison of reactions with prior expectations. Analysis of the data showed the compressed format to be highly comparable to the regular format on both performance and student evaluation profiles. The only differences, both marginal, were in the tendency for perceived stress and instructor effectiveness to be greater under the compressed format. Given the rigor of the experimental controls and the power of the statistical tests used, these findings constitute strong evidence of the efficacy of compressed courses.

Abstract Reviews the book "Accounting Basics," by Owen Cherrington.

Abstract ABSTRACT: This paper reviews auditing research on the process by which auditors form their opinions on financial statements. A structure for this research is provided to organize the review and to provide insights into areas where research is needed. This structure is obtained by cross-classifying steps in theory development and steps in the opinion formulating process. While several important lines of research have begun, the primary conclusion is that a great deal of potentially important research has not been performed.

Abstract Reviews the book "Managerial Accounting: Concepts and Uses," 2nd ed., by Rudolph W. Schattke and Howard G. Jensen.

Abstract Reviews the book "Employer Accounting for Pension Costs and Other Post-Retirement Benefits," by Harold Dankner, Michael P. Glinsky, John H. Grady, Murray B. Hirsch, and Richard M. Steinberg.

Abstract ABSTRACT: This paper presents an extension of PERT/COST which cost accounting instructors can use as the basis for a one- or two-day review of the planning and control cycle. The article stresses performance measurement and responsibility accounting, but the illustrations provided can also be a useful vehicle for a class discussion of such thorny issues as (1) which costs should managers be held responsible for, (2) how should joint costs be allocated, and (3) should joint costs be included in performance reports?

Abstract ABSTRACT: This paper compares students who studied accounting in high school (Group I) to those students who did not (Group II). Two questions were addressed. First, do Group I students outperform Group II students in the first college-level accounting course? Second, what impact does prior accounting education have on dropout behavior from the first college-level course? Data were compiled for 498 students enrolled in elementary financial accounting. The first question was addressed by performing an analysis of covariance with repeated measures on examination scores. Vocabulary and quantitative skills scores were used as the covariates. The second question was evaluated by analysis of total drop-outs and drop-out patterns. Overall, Group I students performed no differently on examinations than those in Group II. While they scored higher on early examinations, they scored less well later. There was no difference in drop-out rate, although Group I students tended to drop later in the semester.