Over the past few decades, educators in general, and language teachers in specific, were more inclined towards using testing techniques that resembled real-life language performance. Unlike traditional paper-and-pencil language tests that required test-takers to attempt tests that were based on artificial and contrived language content,…

Depending on the type of behavior one wants to measure, competency tests are either written or performance oriented. Information and cognitive processing are best measured by written demonstrations of the knowledge. Skills ability is best measured by performance testing. (Author/JOW)

The measurement and evaluation component may be the least understood and most abused part of the typical physical education class. A 1986 study of 1,396 physical educators revealed that less than half used skills tests and written examinations. Ways of improving student evaluation are discussed. (MT)

Explores alternative empirical foundations of verbal and performance dichotomous constructs of Wechsler Intelligence Scales. Argues that Macmann and Barnett's position on the value of these constructs are based upon narrow interpretations of investigative results. Supports contention with IQ data from investigations of diverse populations. (CRR)

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how instructors can prepare criterion-referenced tests that will meet the student assessment needs of vocational-technical education. (SK)

A review of the literature on racquetball skills tests suggests a general skill test, the wall rally, can be a highly reliable measurement tool under certain conditions. In addition, a student's ability in relation to his or her classmates can best be judged by running a round robin tournament. (IAH)

Asserts that some student products, performances, and skills are not suited to evaluation using paper-and-pencil tests. Describes three alternative methods for evaluating student achievement using rating scales, checklists, and anecdotal records. (PGD)

This paper describes the training and development (T&D) profession, discusses problems in proposing a field of practice for it, and proposes a specific field of practice for T&D. It provides an impetus for continued discussion. (Author)

Argues that if a testing situation is not similar to situations in which a child regularly performs linguistically, the test's ecological validity is compromised and its results must be viewed skeptically. (FL)

The author argues that competency-based education does not fit all vocational education applications and should be used in moderation. He also discusses vocational education's focus on actual occupational tasks and the use of criterion-referenced measurement of performance. (CT)

Offers alternative analyses and interpretations of Macmann and Barnett's research data and results. Contends that intelligence is complex and that intelligence testing is important component of school psychological practice. Discusses relation and frequent inconsistency between research and practice. (CRR)

Addressing issues facing vocational education on the topic of performance testing, this handbook consists of a collection of seventeen commissioned papers and reactions to the papers. Two papers are presented on each of the following types of issues that must be considered before a performance test can be constructed: philosophical, technical,…

One major reason for the problems of test validation is an overemphasis on the need for empirical validity data, and a failure to recognize the primary importance of explicit verbal definitions of what the test is intended to measure and rational arguments in support of the means chosen for obtaining the measurement. (Author/LC)

In response to Ebel (TM 508 146) Gardner argues that neither intrinsic rational validity associated with ability tests nor a validity coefficient relating a test to performance as the sole information about validity is sufficient. All relevant data about a test and its functioning are essential in describing the validity of the test. (Author/LC)

Discusses the role and use of achievement tests with particular reference to industry. It describes concepts of validity and reliability, looks at problems, and generally gives helpful hints on use. Contains figures illustrating the process of developing instruction and an example of a simple performance test. (CT)