Focuses on the lengthy written examinations ("prelims") that most students are required to take as part of their doctoral training. Summarizes results of a comprehensive national survey of preliminary examination practices. Presents an alternative to the traditional written examination: developing and being judged on a list of scholarly skills.…

The effectiveness of a model for determining a minimal cut-off score for criterion-referenced tests was examined. The model, based upon techniques presented originally by Nedelsky and by Angoff, was first used in conjunction with a multiple choice test developed for use in certifying school counselors in Georgia. A "knowledge estimation panel" was…