Describes the construction and small-scale implementation of a computer program that can be used on a self-access basis to assess English-as-a-Second-Language listening proficiency. The test involves an extended dictation in dialog form. Results indicate a good correlation with traditional pen-and-paper tests and suggests that the concept has…

Discusses the development of the Adaptive Testing Linguistic Achievement Significance (ATLAS) test used to evaluate second language proficiency of Belgian civil servants. Notes that testers encountered various problems caused by the complexity of language, the difference in background of the candidates and the absence of official objective test…

Describes "Diagnosys," a knowledge-based computer diagnostic test of basic mathematical skills developed in the United Kingdom for university students. Highlights include the need for diagnostic testing; the advantages of a computer-based test; question design; and possible future developments. (Author/LRW)

Evidence from 2,063 elementary and secondary school students who took the School Achievement Motivation Rating Scale developed through the participation of 30 teachers supports the internal consistency and stability of scores from the scale. Evidence of concurrent and construct validity is also provided. (SLD)

Devised an instrument to screen for attitudes toward systematic supervisory behavior, perceptions of factors impacting supervision, and beliefs about preferences for and styles of supervision. Surveys of physical education cooperating teachers only found significant results on one subscale: cooperating teachers who coached, taught high school, or…

In revisions due to be implemented in 1994, the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) will emphasize critical reading skills and mathematical computation more, and test takers will be allowed to use calculators. The College Entrance Examination Board's Achievement Tests will also be overhauled, with new subject tests added and current test format and…

Describes the development of a set of 16 diagnostic tests for computer literacy that would be appropriate for students from grade 5 through college. Objectives of the tests are identified, based on a content analysis of 22 computer literacy curriculum guides, and the need for additional developmental work is discussed. (LRW)

Three different applications of the testlet concept are presented, and the psychometric models most suitable for each application are described. Difficulties that testlets can help overcome include (1) context effects; (2) item ordering; and (3) content balancing. Implications for test construction are discussed. (SLD)

The four main subsystems of the MicroCAT Testing System for developing, administering, scoring, and analyzing computerized tests using conventional or item response theory methods are described. Judgments of three users of the system are included in the evaluation of this software. (SLD)

Described is how tests that accompany texts can be effective if items selected relate to topics stressed in class. Identified are problems commonly found in these types of tests and directions on how to improve problem questions. (KR)

Reports on two studies designed to develop and evaluate the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire-Positive (ATQ-P), a measure of positive automatic thinking that is complementary to the ATQ, a measure of negative thinking in psychopathology. Describes results suggesting that ATQ-P is reliable and valid measure of positive thinking. (Author/NB)

Responds to Crowley's and Wilson's articles on the reliability of the van Hiele Geometry Test. Discusses the issue of the difficulty of trying to maximize content validity while minimizing measurement error. (YP)

Reviews new conceptions of cognitive and conative aptitude, learning, development, and achievement and their assessment. Argues that different purposes for educational assessment require different levels and models of assessment. Strongly suggests research on construct validity and teacher understanding and use of assessment. (FMW)

Six software packages are described in this review. Included are "Molecules and Atoms: Exploring the Essence of Matter"; "Heart Probe"; "GM Sunraycer"; "Six Puzzles"; "Information Laboratory--Life Science"; and "Science Test Builder." Hardware requirements, prices, and a summary of the…

Examines the ratings of 395 science teachers on 38 Intellectual Skills Co-ordination Controls in Teaching (ISCONT) variables. Identifies 5 factors using factor analysis. Proposes a structural model of an Integrated Teaching Plan. (YP)