Explored the hierarchical structure of mental abilities by comparing principal component analysis with a hierarchical cluster analysis algorithm on a short test battery for 182 children. Both the linear principal component analysis and the nonlinear hierarchical clustering analysis confirmed the hierarchical organization of mental abilities. (JAC)

Derived appropriate K-corrections for Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-168 factor scales and a general psychopathology screening scale (PSY). Determined percentile distributions of K-corrected scales in a normal sample (N=1438) and constructed a percentile profile sheet to facilitate clinical use (N=1048). Examined validity of the…

Examined the Tennessee Self Concept Scale for cultural and sex differences with college students (N=202). Data did not support generalizability of normed data across cultures. Analysis showed significant differences according to sex of respondent, and raised questions concerning the validity of certain clinical uses and interpretations of the…

Three psychometric methods for validating learning hierarchies were applied to one data set derived from student responses (N=269) to items representing skills in a hypothesized hierarchy for the mole concept. The hierarchy derived from the analysis was supported by a test for transfer of learning from subordinate to superordinate skills.…

Examined the stability of the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities for a sample of 42 English-speaking and 42 Spanish-speaking Mexican-American preschoolers. The subjects were retested after one year. Concluded that the McCarthy is a relatively stable instrument for English-speaking Mexican-American children. (Author)

Compared the assessments of 18 judges asked to use an array of information to differentiate learning disabled students. Found judges extremely inaccurate and in little agreement with each other. Different judges emphasized different factors. Results cast doubt on the ability of school personnel to identify learning disabilities accurately.…

Investigated the Mathematics Problem Solving (MPS) and Mathematics Concepts (MC) subtests of the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills for content and psychometric item bias at grades three, six, and eight. Identified items which favored either males or females. Found no skill classification, item content, or location trends. (Author/JAC)

In two trials, subjects completed the Depression Adjective Checklist as they felt, or were instructed to "fake good,""fake bad," or "fake average." Discussed findings for "fake bad" and "fake good" in terms of ability of an examiner to detect the manipulative set through grossly deviant scores.…

Analyzed published data on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) to ascertain whether the Information and Vocabulary subtests can function as measures of intelligence. Concluded that the addition of more WAIS subtests will not result in any increase in predictive validity and these additional tests, therefore, lack incremental validity.…

Light's retention scale does not meet standards for a psychometric device for schools. Possibly because of low reliability, the total score was not found to have concurrent validity. The scale needs revision in item content to be accepted by teachers. (Author)

The inclusion of a position on standardized testing in the 1980 Democratic Party platform established testing as a political and legislative issue. Testing regulations have been introduced in 20 states and in Congess, involving critics and supporters such as: the National Education Association, Nader's Public Interest Research Groups, and the…

Presents an alternative between open access to test results as recommended by consumer groups and test security as practiced by test producers. The alternative suggested places counselors directly in the center as interpreters who can satisfy client needs for increased feedback while maintaining test integrity. (Author)

Classical item analysis and Rasch latent trait analysis were applied to the responses of a sample of undergraduates to two measures concerning alcoholism. Little difference in terms of practical considerations was found between the methods. (JKS)

Development of the Stereotyped Behavior Scale for adolescents and adults with mental retardation is described. Use with 600 individuals resulted in refinement and a 26-item scale with an internal consistency alpha of 0.88, test-retest reliability of p=0.90, and interrater reliability of p=0.76. (DB)

R. Herrnstein and C. Murray, in "The Bell Curve," stated six propositions concerning a "g" factor of intelligence. These propositions are found to be reasonably well supported in the scientific literature. These conclusions can be reached whether or not one accepts Herrnstein and Murray's claims about the social significance of…