Improvements are made on previous estimates for the conditional standard error of measurement in prediction, the conditional standard error of estimation (CSEE), and the conditional standard error of prediction (CSEP). Better estimates of how test length affects CSEE and CSEP are derived. (SLD)

Research on true-false (TF), multiple-choice, and alternate-choice (AC) tests is reviewed, discussing strengths, weaknesses, and the usefulness in classroom and large-scale testing of each. Recommendations are made for improving use of AC items to overcome some of the problems associated with TF items. (SLD)

Summarizes educators' and researchers' concerns regarding the use and misuse of standardized reading tests. Suggests a different model for reading assessment. (RS)

The tendency of some respondents to omit items more often when they feel they have a less positive evaluation to make and less frequently when the evaluation is more positive is discussed. Five examples illustrate this form of nonresponse bias. Recommendations to overcome nonresponse bias are offered. (SLD)

Investigates whether the vocabulary of written comprehension questions is an independent factor in determining students' reading comprehension performance. Finds that academic vocabulary in comprehension questions significantly decreased question-answering performance. Computes simple, multiple, and semipartial correlations between vocabulary…

This rejoinder to Grant Wiggins on performance assessment suggests that true educational reform will undoubtedly be evidenced by something more substantial than pocket folders bulging with student work. Labeling performance tests "authentic" does not ensure their validity, reliability, or incorruptibility. Such tests are neither replacements nor…

Alternative assessments have sometimes been used for such purposes as external control of schools. Equitable use of alternatives such as performance-based assessment depends on top-down support for bottom-up reform, careful design, and how well assessment is interwoven with the goals of authentic school reform and effective teaching. (SK)

Neither standards/high-stakes testing nor privatization/charter-school improvement approaches will live up to proponents' ambitious claims. Standardized tests cannot uphold new performance goals. Charter schools serve limited numbers of students, siphoning off pedagogical reform energies that would benefit kids left behind. Rigor and innovation…

Brain research explains why testing for surface knowledge (memorization) reveals relatively little about real, usable knowledge. Assessment must contribute to real-world experience, relate to real-world performance, can never be fully translated into representative symbols or numbers, and can induce both helplessness (interference with meaningful…

Cognizant of individual learning differences, the Rhinebeck (New York) School District refused to settle for mandated Regents exams. Staff developed a successful exhibition program requiring all students in the 5th, 7th, 10th, and 12th grades to demonstrate their knowledge through a performance judged by using various rubrics. (MLH)

Describes seven topics that should be included in a course for teachers on performance assessment and provides some ideas for teaching them. The topics range from assessment selection to recognizing inappropriate, unethical, or illegal assessment methods and uses. (SLD)

Deploring standardized testing deficiencies, the author obtained state funding to adapt England's Primary Language Record assessment to U.S. classrooms and piloted the literacy portion throughout California. Now 20 schools and districts across 8 states employ the Learning Record Assessment, accompanied by parental-involvement and…

This article discusses the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-III (PPVT-III) and data that indicate children from 4 to 10 years of age are scoring, on average, 10 standard score points higher on the PPVT-III than on the PPVT-Revised. Clinical implications, including the identification of fewer children with the PPVT-III, are explored. (Contains…

Examines some negative consequences of North Carolina's statewide testing system, based on perceptions of 236 elementary teachers. Respondents reported high levels of stress and lower morale, a narrowed curriculum, and decreased student love of learning. They also believed widespread grade repetition was inevitable. (Contains 15 references.) (MLH)

Overreliance on standardized testing sends a message to students that learning is remembering facts, and that intelligence is a function of how quickly people can do things. In schools around the country, the content and style of teaching are being placed in the service of the tests. (MLF)