A national proficiency testing program would weaken local decision-making capacity, resegregate the schools, and further the negative effects of nonpromotion of students. Such a program would also have several negative effects on the curriculum. (Author/IRT)

Reviewed is the use of the Porch Index of Communicative Ability as a test for aphasia. (Author/IM)

One method to correct for selection bias in comparing Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores among states is presented, which is a modification of J. J. Heckman's Selection Bias Correction (1976, 1979). Empirical results suggest that sample selection bias is present in SAT score regressions. (SLD)

Explores the introduction of grade criteria into the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) examination as an effort to make clearer the competency and knowledge levels expected of examination candidates in Great Britain. Concludes by exploring problems with this concept and by calling for further clarification of the purpose for this…

Students were allowed to offset a poor examination grade by taking a second, equivalent exam. The repeat exam provided immediate reward for using the initial exam as a study guide. Students who took two or three repeat exams scored higher on the final exam than those who took fewer repeats. There was no "curving" of the exam scores. (Author/JDH)

The increased use of large-scale assessments to measure student achievement and school performance based on defined standards has had a profound impact on state board of education members and other state policymakers. Almost any decision that involves applying standards will, at some point, be unpopular. Everyone seems to be in favor of standards,…

This digest presents seven strategies that an assessment director may use to improve test administration practices. These strategies highlight clear communication, the responsibility of the Building Test Coordinator, and rewarding and reinforcing quality. The strategies are: (1) focusing on communication; (2) designating a building test…

In this interview, Leon Kamin, a prominent psychologist, rejects the theory that intelligence is transmitted by heredity. He deplores the practice of finding scientific data to support political policies, and he challenges that standardized tests-as they are now used-create social harm. (Editor/PG)

Results of the study indicate that regardless of the presence or absence of verbal approval by the examiner during the administration, there was no significant difference in children's test performance on the WISC. (Author)

Not only is the book reviewed, but considerable information on the history and current status of the personality assessment movement is extracted. Suggestions for appropriate utilization of the resources in the book are offered. (DG)

The wastage of student dropouts can be corrected with proper student-teacher counseling. (IR)

Testing professionals need to work with teaching staff and parents to help students prepare for standardized testing. Year-long preparation involving teachers and parents is a better alternative than teaching test wiseness strategies at the last minute before a standardized test. (Author/PN)

Teachers have become aware that they are expected to make judgments and be judged on the basis of test results. In a shared responsibility among teachers, training institutions, testing companies, and school boards, fair use of tests requires that teachers get information on types of tests and test use. (Author/CM)