While there is much enthusiasm about the potential of microcomputers in test development and item banking, testing specialists have no interest in actually purchasing a turnkey test construction system. Focusing development efforts on providing methods to assist test directors, rather than external systems which replace institutionalized…

Microcomputer software for computer-assisted classroom testing is reviewed. The teacher and classroom are emphasized in applying computer technology. The major issues are identification of appropriate classroom testing microcomputer applications; identification of available microcomputer testing software; techniques for software evaluation; and…

The purpose of this paper is to describe some of the current changes in test development that are taking place because of the availability and capabilities of computers, especially microcomputers. Item banking and test assembly are discussed, and a comprehensive testing system is described. (BW)

MicroCAT version 3.0--an integrated test development, administration, and analysis system--is reviewed in this first article of a series on testing software. A framework for comparing testing software is presented. The strength of this package lies in the development, banking, and administration of items composed of text and graphics. (SLD)

Two easy-to-use microcomputer programs, the Student Problem Package and the Test Analysis Package, both by D. L. Harnisch et al. (1985), are described. These programs efficiently analyze test data for teachers. (SLD)

The constructive use of microcomputers in the development of tests requires thoughtful attention to the questions addressed in this paper: What is the purpose for testing? How can a microcomputer help? Which microcomputer system is best? What pitfalls should be avoided? (BW)

Application of computer-assisted testing (CAT) to measurement in the Portland (Oregon) Public Schools is described. Focus is on MicroCAT's developmental subsystem, which allows creation of items and test design specifications. Changes in CAT procedures allowing MicroCAT to function in existing testing systems and uses/limitations of MicroCAT…

Four articles on computer-assisted testing in schools at local and state levels are reviewed. Trends in the application of and limitations/advantages of microcomputerized testing packages are described. (SLD)

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)

In providing an alternative view to the previous article by Ward (TM 508 880), the author notes problems associated with adaptive testing, diagnostic testing, testing embedded in instruction, and testing through simulations. (BW)

In every instance in the process of constructing and using a test, the microcomputer can aid the classroom teacher. However, the teacher will not apply the microcomputer to classroom testing without added training both in classroom testing and in using the microcomputer. (BW)

The author argues that scoring, reporting, and deriving final grades can be considerably assisted by using a computer. He also contends that the savings in time and the computer database formed will allow instructors to determine test quality and reflect on the quality of instruction. (BW)

This article describes a number of problems every educational measurement specialist should be prepared to confront before using microcomputers to support test-related activities, including problems with hardware, with software, and with implementing a system. It concludes with a checklist for planning a microcomputer application. (BW)

Some software packages currently available for item writing and item banking are reviewed. Eleven test-generation and three item-banking packages are listed. Users trained in item response theory can find a great deal of power in a desk-top system. (SLD)

Some of the benefits available from using computers to administer the kinds of tests that are familiar in educational settings are reviewed. Four applications that represent current or near-term enhancements of assessment are discussed: computerized adaptive testing, diagnostic testing, test preparation, and administration of simulations of…