Discusses some models, including the Petersen Novick Model (TM 502 259) regarding fair selection procedures. (DEP)

The common approach to studies of predictive bias is analyzed within the context of a conceptual model in which predictors and criterion measures are viewed as fallible indicators of idealized qualifications. (Author/PN)

There is more than one reasonable definition of test fairness and these definitions are in conflict; alternate formulations are discussed here. (JB)

Two problems in the investigation of predictive bias in tests, the effect of unreliability of the predictors, and the effect of excluding a predictor from the regression equation on which there are preexisting group differences, are discussed. (Author)

Outlines four limitations inherent in using a minimum competency test to determine eligibility for a high school diploma and, in some jurisdictions, to determine advance to the next grade. Discusses the appropriate uses of testing in an overall program.(MP)

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the interaction of item content and group membership on achievement test items. Estimates of the parameters of the three parameter logistic model were obtained on the 46 item math test for the sample of eighth grade students (N = 2055) participating in the Illinois Inventory of Educational Progress,…

Indices of appropriateness of a test for an individual are discussed, and two data sets are evaluated. With the first data set, three indices of test appropriateness are obtained for response patterns on achievement tests from an experimental study of the effects of test anxiety and time pressure with 173 3rd and 4th grade students. Relationships…

The three-parameter logistic model has been used for identifying test items that may be biased. An approach is presented here that is applicable even when one of the subgroups is relatively small. Interactions between item content and group membership, commonly called item bias, may be conceptualized as multidimensionality. (Author/BW)

Use of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and undergraduate grade point average for members of minority groups are examined in relationship to recent LSAT studies and related research on admissions tests and test bias. Traditional predictors of law school grades were found to be as accurate for minority as for majority persons. (JT)

This article discusses the application of the Golden Rule procedure to items of the Scholastic Aptitude Test. Using item response theory, the analyses indicate that the Golden Rule procedures are ineffective in detecting biased items and may undermine the reliability and validity of tests. (Author/JAZ)

The "Griggs vs. Duke Power" decision of the Supreme Court specifies that job relatedness is the only lawful reason for using tests for the purpose of selection when their use results in the disproportionate exclusion of minority group members. One of the main implications of the "Griggs" decision for the test producer and user…

The nature of admissions tests and their intended uses are reviewed. Evidence regarding the validity of tests, their contributions to admissions decisions, the effects of coaching, and possible bias in the predictive meaning of test scores for women and minorities are discussed. (Author/SLD)

The most fundamental technical quality issue raised by proposals for a national examination system is that of validity. Types of evidence needed to judge the validity of test use and the interpretation of results are discussed, and examination content, fairness, impact, generalizability, and comparability are explored. (SLD)

The possibility that certain features of items on a reading comprehension test may lead to biased estimates of the reading achievement of particular subgroups of students was investigated. Item response data on the reading comprehension section of a frequently used achievement test were obtained from the Anchor Test Study data files. Eight…