Short scales are time-efficient for participants and cost-effective in research. However, researchers often mistakenly expect short scales to have the same reliability as long ones without considering the effect of scale length. We argue that applying a universal benchmark for alpha is problematic as the impact of low-quality items is greater on…

The purpose of this study was to help determine optimum item sampling plans for use in school evaluation projects. (Author)

This paper presents a procedure called multiple matrix sampling which simplifies data collection for drug incidence surveys. Advantages for the use of multiple matrix sampling with drug surveys are discussed and a practical example is outlined presenting the guidelines for a sampling plan. (Author)

One solution to the problem of obtaining test scores in order to assess multiple outcomes of educational programs is a basically simple technique called matrix sampling. Matrix sampling is the estimation of total test score statistics by administering random subsets of test items to randomly selected students. This chapter lays out the specific…

In computer assisted test construction (CATC) systems, the computer is used to perform the mechanical aspects of testing while the teacher retains control over question content. Advantages of CATC systems include question banks, decreased importance of test item security, computer analysis and response to student test answers, item analysis…

An induced course load matrix (ICLM) can be a valuable tool for examining the educational process at most postsecondary educational institutions, but the complexity and bulk of the ICLM computer printout is a hindrance. Experiences in using an ICLM at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are described. Examples from an ICLM printout are…