Reports efforts and results associated with the development and validation of a test of graphing skills for grade seven through twelve science students. Concludes that the Test of Graphing in Science (TOGS) is a valid and reliable instrument. Also discusses TOGS value to the teacher and educational researcher. (ML)

Presents microcomputer-based test scoring procedure with focus on measuring student information, partial information, and misinformation based on an information theoretic approach model of knowledge assessment. Admissible probability measurement scoring procedure described removes the constraint of forced choices, where guesses are based on…

Some negative feelings about tests may be the result of not understanding what tests do, what their limitations are, and how they are scored. Classroom, standardized, achievement, and criterion-referenced tests are discussed. Tips for helping children develop a realistic attitude toward tests and good work habits are given. (MT)

Ninety-seven fifth graders took a multiple-choice test with factual and guess questions after reading a 900-word text. The effects of immediate informative feedback, delayed feedback, or no feedback on their performance on a delayed retention tests were analyzed. Results suggested that awareness of initial errors was helpful. (Author/BS)

A group of school districts in Western Oregon has developed a goal-based improvement model that provides teachers and administrators with a common information base. (Author)

Responding to doubts about the validity of test results that showed the Pittsburgh School District's school improvement project to be highly successful, the district validated its results by administering a different test to a representative sample of students in secure conditions. (MCG)

Seeing intelligence as neither strongly hereditary nor necessarily stable over time, and accepting the notion that it is a significant determinant of future occupational status, liberal psychologists and educators rely on the intervention of social institutions, primarily the school. The liberal view toward testing and intelligence is discussed.…

Examines reasons for community colleges' return to mandatory testing and placement in courses/programs where students have a reasonable expectation of success. Looks at the use and success of other retention strategies, including orientation programs, tutors, and integrated support services. (DMM)

The purpose of the study was to describe (1) ways that adults prepare for the General Educational Development Test, (2) test performance of population subgroups, and (3) test candidates' employment and educational outcomes 18 months later. Significant differences were found in a number of areas, and variables related to test performance were…

The first group response on the state of American education from the educational community is reported. These educators agree that debate is healthy, but are concerned that the nation prepare for long-term solutions rather than a "quick fix." (MD)

Looks at the implications of some striking new research on how children become successful readers. (Editor)

The decline in test scores is more reflective of social changes than of educational failure. (IRT)

Provides an overview of the probable role of assessment in the improvement of elementary and secondary education. (Author)

In this book, educational consultant James Cox offers a smarter way to look at data, putting test scores in context, not in isolation. Rather than focusing on last year's findings for school improvement, educators can learn how to evaluate the processes and practices that lead to those data by using a user-friendly, three-pronged framework for…

This compendium is designed to provide a quick overview of assessment instruments that can be used with kindergarten-aged children. It provides a starting point for gathering information on assessment instruments by giving information on approximately 40 instruments published since 1986 that are commercially available. Information on each…