Norm-referenced mathematics achievement tests for Hawaii public school students in four ethnic groups and in grades 4, 6, 8, and 10 were examined for sex differences. Results indicate that girls have higher achievement levels than do boys. Variations across ethnic groups and sociocultural implications are discussed. (TJH)

This article presents initial findings related to the psychometric issues and current state policies and practices for out-of-level testing of students with disabilities. Findings indicate 12 states have out-of- level testing policies and states are evenly distributed among those that use criterion-referenced tests, norm-referenced tests, or a…

Policies and practices related to grading at 14 colleges and universities (8 public and 6 private) and how they have changed between 1980 and 1990 were studied along with the grading orientations and practices of over 500 faculty members. Changes between 1980 and 1990 that may have affected grades include greater prescription of the curriculum,…

A discussion of second language program evaluation focuses on the interpretability of test scores as a criterion in program evaluation. It looks at both test design and research design issues. First, eight method-comparison, program evaluation studies that compare acquisition-based and analysis/practice based methods are described. Acquisition…

Results of the administration of the Nevada Proficiency Examination Program in 1988-89 are presented. The program, established by legislation in 1977 and amended in 1983 and 1987, provided for the administration of examinations of proficiency and achievement in reading, writing, and mathematics before the completion of grades 3, 6, 9, and 12. It…

In 1985, reading and mathematics achievement tests were administered to nearly 15,000 fourth and eighth graders in Alaska. Educators comprising the Interpretive Panel developed a minimum and a desired level of performance. Scores below the minimum indicated a weakness; scores above it, a strength, and scores between, satisfactory achievement. The…

Data on the achievement of 9-, 13-, and 17-year-old Hispanos in school in the areas of social studies, science, mathematics, career and occupational development (COD), and reading were collected between fall of 1971 and spring of 1975. Results were examined in relation to the achievement levels of students in the nation as a whole and those of…

This collection of original papers, first published in the June and July, 1976 issues of Educational Technology Magazine, was prompted by the enormous public outcry which greeted the general public realization that achievement and college aptitude test scores were continuing in recent months and years the steady erosion which began in the…

IMPACT is a computer-based information system designed to help school districts share materials and expertise and to implement state-mandated evaluation of student achievement. It is designed to meet local, regional, and state evaluation and reporting requirements. Based upon the diagnostic-prescriptive approach to instruction, it consists of: (1)…

Conference speakers reviewed and analyzed the current thinking underlying the basic concepts of test norms, reliability, and validity. Roger T. Lennon's paper called for more attention to the development of norming theory and summarized current norming practices and the establishment of a system which would permit comparable norms for tests which…

The three RMC models endorsed by the U.S. Office of Education for the evaluation of Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title I programs are based on narrowly conceived approaches to evaluation--the measurement of cognitive achievement gains. Each model requires the comparison of observed student performance with an estimate of what level of…

The objectives of the symposium were to provide an example of the institution of a systems approach to the solving of an educational problem and to relate this approach to current measurement issues such as criterion-referenced interpretation of test scores and individualization of assessment, diagnosis and instruction. A pilot project in reading…

The National Assessment, a census-like study to collect information concerning the educational attainment of Americans, is being adapted in many states with the results of the adaptations being used for decision making by state agencies or by teachers and administrators. The characteristics of the adaptations follow patterns related to this…

A Florida program of assessment and accountability, wherein student achievement of specified minimum objectives is measured on a statewide level, is summarized. Background information, objective selection procedures, program management, and information utilization are discussed. (DG)

Career Education was introduced to Dade County, Florida schools three years ago. An evaluation was conducted of the elementary school level (Career Awareness) and at the junior high school level (Career Exploratory) during 1974-75. The results of that evaluation, while positive at the elementary level, were inconclusive at the junior high school…