This descriptive study investigates the diffusion of electronic portfolios in preservice teacher education by documenting the context and emergent practices in six programs identified as mature in their implementation. Context variables examined include prior use of paper portfolios, pressures for standards-based assessment, and leadership and…

The resurgence of testing and the significance of this trend to learning assistance facilitators and developmental educators are discussed. This increase in testing, particularly as it manifests itself on college and university campuses, reflects a shift of emphasis in testing, from measuring aptitude to measuring the effect of instruction.…

If microcomputers are used as automated testing stations, for use in psychometric assessment, there are economic advantages. Discussion follows, however, on whether it is possible to improve the quality of cognitive assessment by extending the range of cognitive abilities to be assessed. Two types of extension are considered: modifying and…

In an adaptive test, the test administrator chooses test items sequentially during the test, in such a way as to adapt test difficulty to examinee ability as shown during testing. An effectively designed adaptive test can resolve the dilemma inherent in conventional test design. By tailoring tests to individuals, the adaptive test can…

The history of microcomputer use in education is traced, from 1950 to the present, and implications for testing applications are reviewed. Future trends in statistical analysis packages, mass storage, improved graphics, and integration of components are discussed. (BW)

This discussion of computer-assisted repeatable tests, which are frequently used to evaluate and monitor students' acquisition of knowledge in mastery learning situations, cites and describes a number of specific examples of systems for creating both online and batch tests. A reference list is provided. (JJD)

This article introduces a special issue on technology-based assessment within special education. It notes the effects of the 1988 Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act and briefly reviews the nine papers in the issue. (DB)

Reviews the potential of word processors for changing the ways in which students process written text and think about writing. Three levels of computer-aided writing are considered: simple word processors; computer-aided writing programs; and higher-level computer-aided processing; and improvements in writing quality. (41 references) (LRW)

Reviews the development and use of mass testing procedures for evaluating large groups of relatively homogeneous individuals and suggests computer adaptive testing as an alternative to conventional testing. Highlights include the evaluation of public education and higher education; needs assessment; summative evaluation; adaptive testing; and…

The Maryland Functional Testing Program (MFTP) uses the Rasch model as the statistical framework for the analysis of test items and scores. This paper is designed to assist the reader in developing an understanding of the fit statistics in the Rasch model. Background materials on application of the Rasch model in statistical analysis of the MFTP…

The unique uses of computers in training school psychologists are reviewed, including their potential role in simulated and actual assessment, case disposition, report formulation, record keeping, and research. The microcomputer as "teaching assistant" offers new opportunities for training to become competency-based. (Author)

Olae is a computer system for assessing student knowledge of physics, and Newtonian mechanics in particular, using performance data collected while students solve complex problems. Although originally designed as a stand-alone system, it has also been used as part of the Andes intelligent tutoring system. Like many other performance assessment…

Reviews current and developing technology uses that are relevant to language assessment and discusses examples of recent linguistic applications from the laboratory at the Educational Testing Service. The processes of language test development are described and the functions they serve from the perspective of a large testing organization are…

The theoretical rationales and procedures of five adaptive computer-based instruction models were reviewed: the mathematical model, the regression model, the Bayesian probabilistic model, the testing and branching model, and artificially intelligent instructional systems. Each model is assessed for contrast of methods and forms, identifiable…

Provides rationale for computer-assisted testing and assessment, describes systems currently in use, and examines potential benefits, potential problems, and future implications. Suggests that computer-assisted testing and assessment has potential to either enhance services and resources or to generate problems and confusion for clients and…