The implications of various time limits for tests of a fixed length or number of items seem obvious. If the time permitted is much too short, scores may bunch up at the low end of the potential score range, with a loss of potential variance and a general diminishing of the utility of the variance which is observed. If the time permitted is an…

A sample of the literature on test speededness is reviewed; methods of assessing speededness are presented and criticized; the assumptions that underlie these methods are questioned, and alternate, multiple-administration methods are suggested. The importance of the effect of time limits is discussed. (Author/CTM)

In order to assess achievement in technical drawing at the secondary school level, an experimental examination was conducted using 333 boys and 2 girls from 13 schools. The objectives of the course in order of importance were: (1) Understanding and Comprehension; (2) Use; and (3) Communication. Three papers were formed: Paper I, an objective…

The problem of determining optimal test lengths with fixed total testing time has proved to be a difficult one for criterion-referenced test developers. An algorithm is needed which can be used by test developers to allocate available testing time to maximize the validity of their total criterion-referenced tests or testing programs. To be…