The objective of this study was to determine the degree to which recommendations for passing scores, calculated on the basis of a traditional standard-setting methodology, might be affected by the mode (paper versus computer-screen prints) in which test items were presented to standard setting panelists. Results were based on the judgments of 31…

More attention is currently being paid to the distractors of a multiple-choice test item (Thissen, Steinberg, and Fitzpatrick, 1989). A systematic relationship exists between the keyed response and distractors in multiple-choice items (Levine and Drasgow, 1983). New scoring methods have been introduced, computer programs developed, and research…

The purpose of this study is to examine an option-weighting method as it affects pass-fail decisions in formative and summative evaluation of student achievement for instructional units, certification, advancement, licensure, admissions, placement, and selection. A database was constructed using high school achievement test data where a…

Reviewing the advantages and many disadvantages of conventional grading systems, the article discusses pass/fail grading, suggests the contract system as a solution, and describes a sample contract for a beginning high school child development class. (MW)

Reports a study that evaluated the efficacy of a nonranking grading system in assessing superior performance. (JT)

In an effort to evaluate the undergraduate pass-fail option system of grading at the University of Texas at Austin, 869 undergraduate students, 269 faculty members, and 35 administrators participated in a questionnaire survey. Results indicated: (1) During the 1973 fall semester, 3,896 undergraduate course registrations out of a total of 155,133…

Grading is at best a problem. Many kinds of grading have been attempted using letters, numbers, words, etc. The letter-grade techniques (typically including A,B,C,D,F) have been the most common in the United States, especially in high school and college. However, some students and faculty have been disenchanted with such techniques. Hence, other…

Undergraduates completed one of two questionnaires that were identical except for the course grading system, pass-fail vs letter grades. The "overjustification hypothesis," which proposes that grades undermine high intrinsic interest but augment low interest in academic tasks, was partially supported. Questions concerning the classroom…

A first course in psychopathology for medical students uses both conventional lecture-discussion and programmed, self-instructional formats. Examination policy for the course is described that uses quizzes and a comprehensive final mandatory only for those students failing one of the quizzes. (LBH)

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…

After the temporary shutdown of a reported 400 insitutions last month, administrators are taking a hard look at the political and economic consequences of student strikes. (Editor)

A brief history of grading practices at American colleges and universities is given, along with results of a survey of the current uses of pass/fail grading. The pass/fail system is widely used for a limited number of elective courses. Its adoption peaked during the mid-1970s. (PP)

The major forms of evidence that support a standard's credibility are reviewed, and what can be done over time and for different forms of an examination to enhance its comparability in a credentialing setting is outlined. Pass-fail decisions must be consistent to ensure a standard's credibility. (SLD)