An empirical comparison of the relative efficiency of verbal aptitude tests developed using two latent trait methods, the one- and three-parameter logistic models, is presented. When a well-defined item pool was used, the simple one-parameter logistic model was as efficient as the more complex model. (Author/PN)

A critique of a variety of formats used in combined-response test items (those in which the respondent must choose the correct combination of options: a and b, all of the above, etc.) illustrates why this kind of testing is inherently flawed and should not be used in optometry examinations. (MSE)

It is important that teachers test not only knowledge, but also comprehension, application, synthesis, and evaluation. Several suggestions for test items in physical education are presented. (CJ)

Presented a distinction between concepts of face validity and item subtlety. Trait categories were differentially accessible to individual judges. Higher criterion validities were associated with less subtle and more face-valid items. Results support a rational approach to test construction and emphasize the use of relevant test item content.…

The restrictions on item difficulties that must be met when binomial models are applied to domain-referenced testing are examined. Both a deterministic and a stochastic conception of item responses are discussed with respect to difficulty and Guttman-type items. (Author/BH)

A review of the research on item writing, item format, test instructions, and item readability indicated the importance of instrument structure in the interpretation of test data. The effect of failing to consider these areas on the content validity of achievement test scores is discussed. (Author/GK)

Procedures for computing content validity and consistency reliability coefficients and determining the statistical significance of these coefficients are described. Procedures employing the multinomial probability distribution for small samples and normal curve probability estimates for large samples, can be used where judgments are made on…

The purpose of this report is to make a tentative contribution to the knowledge of students' understanding of the significance of numerical information. The article relates to a study made by the author. (Author/MK)

The relative efficacy of content-appropriate, orally administered true/false and multiple-choice testing was examined with retarded adolescents. Both approaches demonstrated utility and psychometric adequacy. Implications regarding test development for retarded students are briefly discussed. (Author)

Analysis of variance methods were used to investigate the reliability of scores on open ended items in the National Assessment of Educational Progress. The study was designed to determine their stability over seven different scorers and time of scoring during a three-month interval. (Author/CTM) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in…

Multiple-choice tests composed entirely of two-, three-, or four-choice items were investigated. Results indicated that number of alternatives per item was inversely related to item difficulty, but directly related to item discrimination. Reliability and standard error of measurement of three-choice item tests was equivalent or superior.…

Significant differences were found between the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised mean standard scores and Verbal, Performance, and Full Scale IQs. The PPVT-R did not correlate significantly with the WISC-R scales or subtests, suggesting the tests are measuring different abilities. (Author)

Discusses a project to create and evaluate computer-assisted instruction (CAI) sequences for intermediate mathematics and a parallel project to produce and validate test items suitable for inclusion in the Ontario Assessment Instrument Pool (OAIP). Evaluation of the CAI project indicated positive effects on student achievement and attitudes. Four…

The explicit statement of course objectives and a retrospective analysis of student test results are used in the evaluation of a mathematics course for engineering students. (BW)

Reliabilities and concurrent validities of teacher-made multiple-choice and true-false tests were compared. No significant differences were found even when multiple-choice reliability was adjusted to equate testing time. (Author/MH)