Describes capabilities of test and worksheet generator software; discusses features to consider when evaluating the software for purchase; and presents reviews of eight test and worksheet generators: P.D.Q., Testmaster, Easy Quiz Maker, EA Mathematics Worksheet Generator, Mathematics Worksheet Generator, Earth Science Test Maker, Individualized…

Microcomputer software for computer-assisted classroom testing is reviewed. The teacher and classroom are emphasized in applying computer technology. The major issues are identification of appropriate classroom testing microcomputer applications; identification of available microcomputer testing software; techniques for software evaluation; and…

This paper proposes a new Information-Time index as the basis for item selection in computerized classification testing (CCT) and investigates how this new item selection algorithm can help improve test efficiency for item pools with mixed item types. It also investigates how practical constraints such as item exposure rate control, test…

This paper focuses on a version of sequential mastery testing (i.e., classifying students as a master/nonmaster or continuing testing and administering another item or testlet) in which response behavior is modeled by a multidimensional item response theory (IRT) model. First, a general theoretical framework is outlined that is based on a…

Most computerized tests are simple applications that make limited use of the technology inherent in computer-delivered examinations. One potentially valuable feature of computer-administered examinations is the ability to play audio files, a function that makes it possible to incorporate sound into computer-based tests. Audio tests allow the…

Chapters in this book present the challenges and dilemmas faced by researchers as they created new computerized assessments, focusing on issues addressed in developing, scoring, and administering the assessments. Chapters are: (1) "Beyond Bells and Whistles; An Introduction to Computerized Assessment" (Julie B. Olson-Buchanan and Fritz Drasgow);…

Describes the development and field testing of microcomputer programs to construct phase tests, analyze student performance and prepare individualized remedial activities for Technician Education Council courses in Great Britain. (SK)

Compared three online pretest calibration scaling methods through simulation: (1) marginal maximum likelihood with one expectation maximization (EM) cycle (OEM) method; (2) marginal maximum likelihood with multiple EM cycles (MEM); and (3) M. Stocking's method B. MEM produced the smallest average total error in parameter estimation; OEM yielded…

Some alternative criteria for item selection in adaptive testing are proposed that take into account uncertainty in the ability estimates. A simulation study shows that the likelihood weighted information criterion is a good alternative to the maximum information criterion. Another good alternative uses a Bayesian expected a posteriori estimator.…

Analyzed examinee responses to conventional (multiple-choice) and innovative item formats in a computer-based testing program for item response theory (IRT) information with the three parameter and graded response models. Results for more than 3,000 adult examines for 2 tests show that the innovative item types in this study provided more…

Mixed integer linear programing models for customizing two-stage tests are presented. Model constraints are imposed with respect to test composition, administration time, inter-item dependencies, and other practical considerations. The models can be modified for use in the construction of multistage tests. (Author/TJH)

A network-flow model is formulated for constructing parallel tests based on classical test theory while using test reliability as the criterion. Practitioners can specify a test-difficulty distribution for values of item difficulties as well as test-composition requirements. An empirical study illustrates the reliability of generated tests. (SLD)

A method is presented for incorporating a large number of constraints on adaptive item selection in the construction of computerized adaptive tests. The method, which emulates practices of expert test specialists, is illustrated for verbal and quantitative measures. Its foundation is application of a weighted deviations model and algorithm. (SLD)

This book documents the research, development, and implementation efforts that allowed the U.S. Department of Defense to initiate the Computerized Adaptive Testing Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Program for enlistment testing. Traces the history of this program over 30 years. (SLD)

Constructed a pool of items from operational tests of mathematics to investigate the feasibility of using automated-test-assembly (ATA) methods to moderate simultaneously possibly irrelevant differences between the performance of women and men and African-American and White test takers. Discusses the usefulness of ATA. (SLD)