An index for the dependability of mastery tests is described. Assumptions necessary for the index and the mathematical development of the index are provided. (Author/JKS)

Two indices for assessing the efficiency of decisions in mastery testing are proposed. The indices are generalizations of the raw agreement index and the kappa index. Empirical examples of these indices are given. (Author/JKS)

A number of different reliability coefficients have recently been proposed for tests used to differentiate between groups such as masters and nonmasters. One promising index is the proportion of students in a class that are consistently assigned to the same mastery group across two testings. The present paper proposes a single test administration…

A number of different definitions and indices of reliability for mastery tests have recently been proposed in an attempt to cope with possible lack of score variability that attenuates traditional coefficients. One promising index that has been suggested is the proportion of students in a group that are consistently assigned to the same mastery…

A computer simulation study was conducted to investigate Subkoviak's index of reliability for criterion-referenced tests, called the coefficient of agreement. Results indicate that the index can be adequately estimated. (JKS)

Four different methods for estimating the proportions of testees properly classified as having mastered or not mastered test content are examined, using data from the Scholastic Aptitude Test. All four methods prove reasonably accurate and all show some bias under certain conditions. (JKS)

Descriptions are presented of two related probabilistic models that can be used for making classification decisions with respect to mastery of specific concepts or skills. Determination of cutoff scores, minimal number of items necessary, and the assessment of the quality of tests provided by the model are discussed. (Author/JKS)

Classical test construction and analysis procedures are applicable and appropriate for use with criterion referenced tests when samples of both mastery and nonmastery examinees are employed. (Author/BB)

Several Bayesian approaches to the simultaneous estimation of the means of k binomial populations are discussed. This has particular applicability to criterion-referenced or mastery testing. (Author/JKS)

A nonrandomized minimax solution is presented for passing scores on mastery tests using the binomial error model. The computation does not require prior knowledge regarding an individual examinee or group test data for a population of examinees. A scheme which allows for correction for guessing is also described. (Author/JKS)

The evaluation model for mastery testing as proposed by Emrick (1971) represents an empirical approach to determining the most appropriate mastery criterion score that should be established in those testing situations which entail decision making relative to the continued progression or possible recycling of students in a given learning sequence.…

The problem of determining an optimal passing score for a mastery test is discussed, when the purpose of the test is to predict success on an external criterion. For the case of constant losses for the two possible error types, a method for determining passing scores is derived. (Author/JKS)

The 10 criticisms of criterion-referenced tests addressed in this paper are: the domains tested; pedagogical influence; difficulty of items; cumbersome reports; reliability; arbitrary criteria; local objectives; labeling; predictive validity; and repeated testing. (SJL)

The use of cut-off scores with criterion referenced tests is defended in this response to two papers by Gene Glass and Nancy Burton. Suggestions for setting cut-off scores are made. (JKS)

This study examined the test-retest reliability and criterion validity of basal mastery tests of three commercial reading series. Results indicated that reliability and validity of the test varied among and within instruments. Implications for developing and using basal mastery tests are discussed. (Author/MT)