Explores the consequence of failing to incorporate measurement error in the development of cut scores in criterion-referenced measures, using the example of Texas and the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills to illustrate the impact of measurement error on false negative decisions. Findings support those of W. Haney (2000). (SLD)

The literature on issues of the reliability and validity of objective and performance assessments in vocational education and training was reviewed and synthesized to develop guidelines for procedures to enhance reliability and validity. The review established the following facts: (1) validity is determined largely through inferences made by both…