Technical advances of the last 15 years in measurement theory and practice are described, notably criterion-referenced testing, item response theory, and computers and testing. Several remaining problems concerning the development and validation of credentialing examinations are also considered. (Author/LMO)

Validity data are provided for the Adaptive Behavior Inventory for Children (ABIC) and the Estimated Learning Potential (ELP) which are components of the System of Multicultural Pluralistic Assessment (SOMPA). Results lead the author to conclude that caution is indicated in the use of the two procedures. (JKS)

In 1987, a survey report by J. Cannell was published criticizing state reports based on national standardized testing of elementary school students that indicated that all 50 states were above the national average. This phenomenon--known as the "Lake Wobegon Effect"--is analyzed. Technical problems with the study are considered. (TJH)

A survey identified 352 psychological tests that are used in Australia but produced in other countries. About 89 percent have been standardized for use in Australia, but no local data have been compiled for some high-use tests. Responsibilities of test distributors and users are discussed. (SLD)

Research says the school-improvement mechanisms favored by policymakers-more certification tests (like the Massachusetts Educator Certification Test that 59 percent of candidates failed in 1998), higher cut scores, and severe penalties for institutions not meeting pass rates-are unlikely to deliver increased accountability and better teachers.…

Computerized-adaptive (CAT) and self-adapted (SAT) music listening tests were compared for efficiency, reliability, validity, and motivational benefits with 53 junior high school students. Results demonstrate trade-offs, with greater potential motivational benefits for SAT and greater efficiency for CAT. SAT elicited more favorable responses from…

The consistency by which shared abilities are assessed on three intelligence tests was investigated. Instruments under consideration include: the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised, the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, and the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition. A list of shared abilities and the subtests…

An important problem in psychological test theory is the development of a sound method for determining whether a test which purports to measure the level of a certain ability is, in reality, significantly contaminated by one or more other abilities displayed by persons taking the test. Because of the large number of private and governmental…

Discusses two papers on university test validity and presents rational standards for researchers working on test validity. (PG)

The Tennessee Self Concept Scale (TSCS) was administered to 109 students newly enrolled at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Consistent with earlier reserch literature, test results indicated that the deaf students had lower levels of self esteem than did the normative hearing population. Subsequent interviews with 30 members of the…

A STUDY WAS CONDUCTED TO DETERMINE CHANGES IN SCORE CHARACTERISTICS RELATED TO VARIOUS CONDITIONS OF SPEEDEDNESS WHEN A TEST IS PRESENTED VISUALLY BY PROJECTING ONE ITEM AT A TIME. THIS METHOD OF STUDY IS POTENTIALLY USEFUL FOR PRESENTING TEST MATERIALS BY TELEVISION. THE TOTAL SCORE AND PART SCORE DATA REVEALED HIGH RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN THE…

Issues relevant to the nature of attitudes are discussed. The reader is referred to works indexing a variety of existent attitude scales. The way in which one constructs, administers, scores, interprets, and presents findings of an original attitude measuring device is discussed comprehensively, and yet in a nontechnical fashion for…

The relationship between Elizur's Hostility Scoring on the Rorschach Test and the Acting-Out Score on the Hand Test was examined. Correlations between the two measures (using several scoring procedures) ranged from .40 to .64. (JKS)

Critics of standardized testing are fighting back with lawsuits and legislation. Evaluates the Educational Testing Service's business policy and how it conflicts with quality testing. Also suggests actions that can be taken by concerned parents who wish to protect their children from unfair testing practice. (Editor/RK)