This paper studies whether equating results can be improved if the variable that accounts for all systematic differences between equating populations is identified and used as an anchor in anchor test design or as a variable on which to match equating samples. The sample invariant properties of four anchor test equating methods (Tucker and Levine…

A Bayesian approach for simultaneous optimization of test-based decisions is presented using the example of a selection decision for a treatment followed by a mastery decision. A distinction is made between weak and strong rules, and conditions for monotonicity of optimal weak and strong rules are presented. (Author/SLD)

Using data from a sample of 10 colleges at which most students had taken both the SAT I: Reasoning Test and SAT II: Subject Tests researchers simulated the effects of making selection decisions using SAT II scores in place of SAT I scores. Students in each college were treated as forming the applicant pool for a more select college, and the top…

A special case of examinee choice, the Optional Essay Problem, is examined from the point of view of test equating. The Optional Essay Problem involves equating essay scores when the examinees are required to select an optional essay topic from a list of topics in addition to taking a mandatory test required of all examinees. The conditions that…

A guide for developing educational criterion measures is presented. Subjective evaluations are at best highly variable and conflicting. Specification of objectives precedes selection of criterion measures. The criterion measures presented are intended for evaluation of programs, not pupils. Frequently multiple criterion measures are necessary to…

To clarify the findings of R. Gillett (1991) about the inequality of the means of test scores of minority and majority examinees, the standard errors of the quota-selected sample means and the sampling distribution of these means were studied through Monte Carlo simulation. Results explain that the quota selection inequality results from…

An evolved form of the Edwards and Beckworth (1989) model for probability selection for Scholastic Achievement Test takers using truncated normal distributions is presented. It is shown that the arguments of Holland and Wainer are not sufficient to reject this model. (SLD)

In this article the author put forward some relatively novel ideas about the nature and purpose of tests and examinations. (Editor/RK)

Investigates the effect of test familiarization, practice, and coaching upon the test performance of 10- to 11-year-old British school children. Explains there were two conditions: (1) children had three hours of coaching before test taking; and (2) children received coaching after taking three tests. Includes references. (CMK)

Distributions were accomplished to demonstrate the relationships between age, educational level, and Armed Forces Qualification Test scores of the 1965 airman accessions and their reenlistment desirability at the completion of their initial tour. The largest percentage of undesirable enlistees was found in the high school non-graduate, Category 4,…

The report summarizes a large body of data relevant to the proper interpretation and use of aptitude scores on the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT). Included are descriptions of the AFOQT testing program and the test itself. Technical data include an extensive sampling of validation studies covering predictors of success in pilot…

In order to understand the roles of test scores and diversity characteristics (including race and ethnicity) in the admission process, National Board researchers interviewed admissions directors who worked at selective public and private institutions are well as admissions consultants in the summer and fall of 1999. This report presents an…

The construction of parallel editions of conventional tests for purposes of test security while maintaining score comparability has always been a recognized and difficult problem in psychometrics and test construction. The introduction of new modes of test construction, e.g., adaptive testing, changes the nature of the problem, but does not make…

Cohen and Hyman's response contains several misunderstandings of the original article by Mehrens and Kaminski. One frequently wishes to make inferences to a domain from a test, but teaching a specific performance and testing for that performance does not allow for a domain inference. (SLD)

Demonstrates that Advanced Placement (AP) courses may not be appropriate for every student. Discusses the process of selecting students for AP U.S. history. Criteria include an application, summer sessions, and evidence of motivation to excel in the program. Considers the effects of this policy. (CMK)