A novel solution to the statistical problems in an evaluation of rare events is described. The significance of variations in the number of child homicides is analyzed in a binary time series of "active" months for monitoring future incidence and related systemic events. (Author/CM)

When evaluating the effectiveness of an educational program, multiple matrix sampling is particularly effective and efficient when the goal of the evaluation is estimating group (as opposed to individual) performance. The technique is described in some detail, with its advantages and disadvantages, and examples of its application are given.…

Outlines methods for including skill testing in teacher-made history tests. Focuses on distinguishing fact and fiction, evaluating the reliability of a source, distinguishing between primary and secondary sources, recognizing statements which support generalizations, testing with media, mapping geo-politics, and applying knowledge to new…

The article addresses assessment of the young handicapped child and describes development of the Competency Assessment Profile. Journal availability: see EC 133 846. (Author)

Describes undergraduate teaching assistant (TA) system designed to maintain high standards of grading by TAs and to assure students and colleagues that TA grading is consistent and fair. A description of TA training and monitoring and data on TA performance are presented. (Author/KC)

Details the development of a new objective self-report instrument--the Internalizing Symptoms Scale for Children (ISSC)--for assessing the broad domain of internalizing symptomatology in children. Discusses results of a factor analysis and describes potential uses of the ISSC. Implications for future assessment in child psychopathology are…

Adolescent substance abuse is an increasing problem in U. S. society. This article provides an overview of adolescent substance abuse, screening, and assessment strategies; contact information related to specific assessment instruments; and information regarding ethic important to consider during the assessment process. (Contains 16 references and…

Testing can be a time-consuming and tedious method of evaluation. This article suggests methods which don't take additional classroom time or turn students off, and which provide more immediate and constructive feedback than routine testing. (IAH)

A general process for faculty to use in comparing the relative efficacy of college outcomes assessment instruments for gauging student progress toward goals is outlined. Analysis of two standardized general education exams, the American College Testing College Outcome Measures Project and the Educational Testing Service Academic Profile,…

Reviews two tests which highlight important trends in the assessment of learning disabilities, and presents potentially valuable, practical developments in assessment. Identifies the recurring problem of the lack of a theory, construct, or clear definition to guide the assessment of learning disabilities. (MG)

Reviews current research developments in several areas of personnel selection methodology which represent attempts to develop alternatives to traditional paper-and-pencil methods of test development. Areas examined include computer-interactive tests in employment situation, new uses for life history information, physical tests for physically…

"Tests in Print IV" is a two-volume comprehensive master index of commercially published separate test titles in print that are available for purchase and use. There are over 3,000 entries, the majority of which originated in the United States. It is an invaluable resource for English-speaking test users. (SLD)

This paper reviews the psychometric properties, treatment utility, and conceptual basis of instruments used to identify the functions of aberrant behaviors in people with developmental disabilities. Instruments include the Motivational Assessment Scale, Motivation Analysis Rating Scale, Functional Analysis Interview Form, and Functional Analysis…

Presents a cross-cultural perspective for testing practitioners. Discusses practical cross-cultural assessment issues, including test unfairness or bias. Offers solutions to testing issues regarding diverse populations. Includes 80 citations. (Author/CRR)

This article outlines differences between traditional assessment and authentic assessment procedures, discusses problems with each type of assessment in relation to special learners, and offers certain cautions that must be observed when implementing authentic assessment. (JDD)