A decision consistency (DC) index is an estimate of the consistency of a classification decision on an exam. More specifically, DC estimates the percentage of examinees that would have the same classification decision on an exam if they were to retake the same or a parallel form of the exam again without memory of taking the exam the first time.…

This research, following a sequential mixed-methods design, delves into metacognitive control in problem solving among 5- to 6-year-olds, using two floor-robot environments. In an initial qualitative phase, 82 pupils participated in tasks in which they directed a floor robot to one of two targets, with the closer target requiring more cognitive…

This study aimed to extend previous literature comparing continuous methods of data collection to estimation data, but this time implementing the data collection procedures within a group discrete trial teaching format with three individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Group discrete trial teaching was conducted in a classroom setting…

The dimensional comparison theory (DCT) focuses on the effects of internal, dimensional comparisons (e.g., "How good am I in math compared to English?") on academic self-concepts with widespread consequences for students' self-evaluation, motivation, and behavioral choices. DCT is based on the internal/external frame of reference model…

Secondary education in Fiji ends with the Form 7 examination. Predictive validity for academic success of Form 7 scores which form the basis for admission into the Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery programme of the Fiji School of Medicine was examined via a cohort of 129 students. Success rates for year 1 in 2008, 2009, and 2010 were 90.7…

Background: Successfully selecting students for undergraduate courses and for teaching is notoriously difficult. Traditionally, in England, A level grades and interviews have been used in conjunction with a variety of other approaches. Purpose: This paper examines the predictive validity of students' A level grades and of scores from a structured…

Many colleges of business now assume incoming freshmen arrive on campus possessing high levels of computer skill and ability. Students are frequently offered the opportunity to take and pass a computer proficiency exam (CPE) in lieu of a freshman information technology (IT) course. While promoted as an efficient alternative, our analysis of the…

The purpose of this study was to measure the comprehension of basic mathematical skills of students enrolled in statistics classes at a large regional university, and to determine if the scores earned on a basic math skills test are useful in forecasting student performance in these statistics classes, and to determine if students' basic math…

The use of microworlds (MWs), or complex dynamic systems, in educational testing and personnel selection is hampered by systematic measurement errors because these new and innovative item formats are not adequately controlled for their difficulty. This empirical study introduces a way to operationalize an MW's difficulty and demonstrates the…

Examined predictive validity of Medical Specialty Preference Scales (MSPS) and Medical Specialty Preference Inventory (MSPI). Administered MSPS to 71 medical students and MSPI to 73 medical students. Findings indicated that MSPI predicted accurately three times more than did MSPS. Based on predictive validity and teaching possibilities, MSPI seems…

When administered to 125 deaf youngsters, ages 5-12, the WISC performance test had good reliability and predictive validity, but administration to some young or physically handicapped children proved difficult. The Colored Progressive Matrices proved satisfactory with older subjects, but its suitability for younger deaf children was not confirmed.…

The relationships between the Gesell School Readiness Test and standarized achievement and intelligence measures were examined. Children were tested before kindergarten, at the end of kindergarten, and at the end of first grade. Correlation coefficients varied from grade to grade, but did not show a higher correlation between related measures.…

Explored the relationship between the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised (PPVT-R) and the Peabody Individual Achievement Test (PIAT) administered to a sample of 29 mentally retarded children. Findings indicated that the PPVT-R predicted achievement as measured by the PIAT only moderately; and that PPVT-R scores correlated with achievement…

Investigated the concurrent validity of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (Revised) subtests and three IQs compared to Wide Range Achievement Test standard scores, in 28 learning-disabled children. Analysis showed no significant correlations between WISC-R and WRAT scores, indicating a lack of concurrent validity on the WAIS-R. (WAS)

Investigated validity of Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition and Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children with 89 preschool Head Start children from low-income families, using Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale-Form LM as criterion measure. Found some support for concurrent and construct validity of both instruments for use with…