Evaluates three strategies for controlling input-level ability differences in research utilizing ability test performance for evaluating school effectiveness: (1) longitudinal, predetermined ability measures; (2) cross-sectional, endogenous ability measures; and (3) socioeconomic measures as proxies for ability. (Author/GC)

A recently developed and validated group assessment instrument, the Piagetian Logical Operations Test (PLOT), is described focusing on how teachers can use PLOT in improving learning in science classrooms. PLOT is an untimed 51-item instrument consisting of 13 content, 18 decision, and 20 reason items. (MP)

Explores materials in the ERIC system that discuss all sides of the minimum competency issue. (RL)

The measurement of psychological states requires an entirely different technology from the classical personality inventory assessments of psychological traits. Differences in the requirements of state v trait measurement are discussed. Problems of naming, labelling, describing, defining, and interpretation are discussed in relation to…

Presents a critical overview of educational screening devices and the means by which they should be judged. Topics discussed include estimates regarding the extent to which school readiness tests are used, objectives of screening, effectiveness of educational screening, defining the at-risk population, measurement problems, and measures for…

Two new techniques that were used with a group of seven blind, multiply handicapped young adults in a half-way house are described. Structured learning therapy is a social skills training technique and group assessment is a method of averaging psychological data on a group of clients to facilitate program planning based on client needs.…

Questions are raised regarding the validity of norm-referenced tests and mass testing as accurate methods for evaluating student educational needs. (LH)

It is in the best interest of both educators and the public that a stringent, valid, and rigorous assessment of individual competencies be associated with the granting to individuals of the authority to teach. (JD)

Structured interviews with 154 adults with mental retardation showed two-thirds were either unable to respond or exhibited response bias. There was a significant difference in scores on the Adaptive Behavior Scale between those who exhibited response bias and those who did not. The substitution of a proxy respondent is discussed. (Contains…

Explores the role of task and task-based assessment in a collegiate foreign language department that shifted its entire undergraduate curriculum from a form-based normative approach to a language-use and language-meaning orientation for instruction. Examines how demands for specificity that characterize task-based assessment contributed…

Responds to five major articles by Duckworth, Goldman, Healy, Sampson, and Goodyear on issues pertaining to testing and assessment in counseling psychology. Suggests that the interactive, collaborative aspects of the assessment relationship between psychologist and client need more attention. (TE)

The evaluation of gifted programs is examined in terms of setting group and individual goals, measurement problems (validity, reliability, precision, ceiling effect, and overtesting), comparison groups (national norms or pre- and posttesting), and implementing evaluation strategies. (DB)

Definitions of and approaches to naturalistic evaluation are discussed. The qualitative aspects of the discipline are reviewed; and use of naturalistic evaluation in descriptions, illustrations, explications, hypothesis testing, and assessment of public spending are defined. A new paradigm for naturalistic evaluation is proposed. (TJH)

Presents examples of how regular classroom-based assessment can be incorporated into foreign language classroom activities, without compromising teaching and learning time, through methods involving student self-assessment, improved assessment tools, small-group practice and testing, and multiple use of standard forms and materials. (CB)

Describes the Child Abuse Potential Inventory and associated psychometric data. Discusses uses and misuses of the inventory, general test limitations, and screening instruments available to professionals concerned with child maltreatment. (RJC)