Implications of case specificity in two computer-based clinical-simulation examination cases were examined by a classical measurement approach and by a Bayesian analysis of test characteristics. Results from 163 medical students indicate that such examinations cannot be used in high-stakes situations without additional research. (SLD)

Describes the use of Rasch item statistics for curricular analysis and instructional decision making. Uses a case study of application of the Rasch model in the pilot testing of items selected for criterion-referenced tests developed for grades one through eight in Charleston (South Carolina) schools. (SLD)

The self-report Educational Beliefs Questionnaire (EBQ) was constructed, and its construct validity was studied with 610 elementary school and secondary school teachers. The instrument assesses beliefs about five specific educational concepts. Further research will determine whether the 3-factor model still applies to a 20-item version of the EBQ.…

Developed is an examination to determine a student's visualization capabilities. This examination has two versions, both developed to measure visualization ability, time to visualize, and reaction time. This test indicates the learner's ability to visualize complex three-dimensional objects from six principal views. Included are the results from a…

Describes adaptation of a questionnaire on teacher interaction to map cooperating teachers' behavior and relationships between their interpersonal behavior and student teachers' satisfaction with supervision. Student teachers completed the Questionnaire on Supervisor Interaction (QSI) and Student Teacher Satisfaction Questionnaire. Results found…

A series of 19 questions illuminates the characteristics of effective performance assessments in 3 sections: (1) the nature of assessment; (2) properties of effective tasks; and (3) making tasks meaningful and engaging. A fourth section offers practical suggestions for the construction of performance assessments and for teacher involvement. (SLD)

The difference between item bias and item impact and the way they relate to item validity are discussed from a multidimensional item response theory perspective. The Mantel-Haenszel procedure and the Simultaneous Item Bias strategy are used in a Monte Carlo study to illustrate detection of item bias. (SLD)

Results of a study, which evaluated both a university student teaching program and the procedures used to evaluate individual student teachers, suggest that student teaching experiences can be enhanced by systematic and methodological strategies for analysis and improvement of both the preservice preparation program and student teacher…

Student assessment in science in primary (elementary) schools in the United Kingdom is discussed in the context of the enactment of a National Curriculum. Sample science test items are included. Teachers must develop the skills required to assess students' learning in science and should not rely on external tests. (SLD)

The relationships between time management of college students and self-reported academic performance and various affective measures of stress were explored for 123 undergraduates. The study indicates that self-reported time management is multidimensional and that there are important relationships among time management, performance, and stress.…

Questionnaire responses of 155 student teachers were analyzed to develop meaningful attitude scales and to refine the instrument. Attitude scales identified in the analysis and built into the final form of the questionnaire were (1) anxiety; (2) confidence and enjoyment, (3) desire for recognition; and (4) pressure to conform. Includes a copy of…

Studied concurrent and construct validities of the Academic Motivation Scale (AMS) (English translation of a scale developed in French) with 107 male and 110 female junior college students in Montreal (Canada) who completed the AMS and other motivation assessments. Findings support both concurrent and construct validity of the AMS. (SLD)

Discusses two methods for developing and assessing fluid abilities. In the first method, students are asked to solve increasingly unfamiliar problems in a domain; and in the second, students are required to organize knowledge in new ways or view it from different perspectives. (SLD)

Average performance on subtests of the Iowa Tests of Educational Development was compared for 177 high school students taking the test under silent reading (standardized) conditions and time limits and students listening to audiotapes of test material as they read the test. Poor readers were helped by the tapes. (SLD)

Major changes in educational and psychological theories that have come about since the cognitive and affective taxonomies of educational objectives were published in 1956 and 1964 are traced. The changes emphasize the need to understand thinking in the context of students' beliefs and self-directed cognitions. (SLD)