The standard error of measurement (SEM) is a measure of the inconsistency in the scores of a particular group of test-takers. It is largest for test-takers with scores ranging in the 50 percent correct bracket; with nearly perfect scores, it is smaller. On tests used to make pass/fail decisions, the test-takers' scores tend to cluster in the range…

The traditional reliability coefficient and standard error of measurement are not adequate measures of reliability for tests used to make pass/fail decisions. Answering the important reliability questions requires estimation of the joint distribution of true and observed scores. Lord's "Method 20" estimates this distribution without the…

This report describes a study conducted in response to a request for help in establishing decision rules for exempting prospective teachers from a proposed statewide testing requirement in Indiana. Having decided to use Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores as a basis for exempting prospective teachers from the Pre-Professional Skills Test…