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An increasing volume of empirical literature demonstrates the possibility of spatial autocorrelation in land value models. A number of objections regarding the methodology followed in those empirical studies have been raised. This thesis examines three propositions. The first proposition states that there is spatial dependence in the land value model in Roanoke County. The second proposition is that mechanical construction of neighborhood effects, or grouping nearby land parcels into neighborhoods, is not always the best way to capture spatial effects. Finally, the third and most important proposition states that by implementing a comprehensive set of individual and joint misspecification tests, one can better identify misspecification error sources and establish a more statistically sound and reliable model than models based on existing spatial econometric practices. The findings of this dissertation basically confirm the validity of those three propositions. In addition, we conclude that based on their development status prices of land parcels in Roanoke County may follow different stochastic processes. Changes in the values of hedonic variables have different implications for different groups of land parcels. / Ph. D.

As an avenue of educational reform and organizational restructuring within public education, school choice has gained in popularity over the last twenty years. The charter school movement, in particular, has enjoyed a high growth rate since its introduction in 1992. Advocates of charter schools claim the schools' regulatory freedom and unique structure foster improved academic performance and educational success. However, the literature shows charter school students' performance is typically below and, at best, on par with that of neighboring public school peers. Given this mismatch of purported academic advantage and observed performance, this study aims to add to the literature by explaining why parents choose charter schools and remain in charter schools. Using the Texas Education Agency's 2006 Survey of Charter School and Traditional School Parents this study will examine why parents consider different aspects of schooling more important than others. Survey responses will be analyzed to explain possible relationships between factors affecting charter school enrollment, race, and socioeconomic status. / Master of Science