Defines computer assisted language testing (CALT), discusses the various processes involved, outlines the advantages and disadvantages, and examines psychometric aspects of computer testing. A table of factors distinguishes between test content and the mechanics of test taking. These factors constitute a table for developing a CALT checklist. (24…

While student evaluations of teaching performance can provide useful feedback on faculty, particularly on dimensions of course delivery, there are serious limitations. Bias and distrust are often overlooked in interpreting student ratings. An inappropriate use is in rank-ordering faculty in a department. Student evaluation data must be integrated…

The new scale used for scoring the Scholastic Assessment Tests (SAT) is explained, its development is described, and implications for the college admissions process are discussed. The recentering was designed to remedy the downward drift of the score distribution midpoint. (Author/MSE)

External correlates of Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) profile scales were investigated in a racially mixed urban sample of 247 adolescent psychiatric inpatients and outpatients (140 males and 107 females). Correlates included items completed by the patients' mothers. Gender plays a role as moderator of scale interpretation…

Describes the development and use of the Middle Infant Screening Test. Isolates factors which directly relate to children's progress in early reading and writing development. (RS)

The aptitude tests used in Queensland (Australia) to standardize secondary school leavers' school evaluations was assessed for reliability with various student group sizes and for a range of abilities. The error found was significant for small and moderately sized groups, suggesting the need for care in test interpretation. (Author/MSE)

Discusses the use of standardized test results as a guide to developing curriculum content. Discusses such a plan being used (and offers data gathered) at Hellgate Elementary School, Montana, as an example. (JC)

Describes the addition of a writing performance assessment to the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), and how development of the Analysis of Argument measure and the Persuasive Adaptiveness measure helps explain the holistic writing score given during grading of the GMAT. Correlates holistic and analytic scores, revealing a positive…

The Wechsler Individual Achievement Test assesses achievement in students in grades K-12, with subtests in reading, mathematics reasoning, spelling, reading comprehension, numerical operations, listening comprehension, oral expression, and written expression. The test was developed to assist in identification of students with learning…

Incidents affecting the implementation of large-scale testing programs are described to illustrate associated problems. Issues addressed include creation of test materials, preparation of answer documents, transportation of test materials, scoring and analysis of tests, and dissemination and utilization of test results. (TJH)

Possible sources of intrajudge inconsistency in standard setting are reviewed, and approaches are presented to improve the accuracy of rating. Procedures for providing judges with feedback through discussion or computerized communication are discussed. Monitoring and maintaining judges' consistency throughout the rating process are essential. (SLD)

A two-stage process that considers the multidimensionality of tests under the framework of unidimensional item response theory is described and evaluated. Findings from a simulation indicate that gains in estimation robustness and score interpretation are possible with almost no sacrifice of goodness of fit when using this two-stage approach. (SLD)

Discussion of student evaluation of college teaching in four European countries (United Kingdom, Netherlands, France, Germany) focuses on concerns about test bias. Factors specific to the higher education systems in those countries that could affect student evaluation and other related issues are examined. (Author/MSE)

The Bracken Basic Concept Scale, for use with preschool and primary-aged children, determines a child's school readiness and knowledge of English-language verbal concepts. The instrument measures 258 basic concepts in such categories as comparisons, time, quantity, and letter identification. This paper describes test administration, scoring and…

A study involving 105 sixth-graders examined three aspects of technical adequacy with respect to two general outcome measures in mathematics: the effects of aggregating scores and correcting for random guessing on reliability and validity and the extent to which the measures were sensitive to changes in performance. (Contains references.)…