This paper focuses on the teacher competency testing movement that is sweeping the nation. The first section provides an overview of teacher testing programs nationally, including the rationale for such programs, the types of tests used across the states, concerns about current testing programs, test validity studies, and fiscal and legal issues.…

The current popularity of teacher testing allows for content, criterion, and construct validity to be assessed, as pertaining to achievement levels on basic knowledge examinations. Teacher competency is a complex issue that is inaccurately confused with or identified as measures derived from academic testing. The problems in addressing the…

This conference paper examines issues regarding minimum competency testing, including: (1) the history and current status of minimum competency testing programs, in the U.S. and especially in the Midwest; (2) technical characteristics of minimum competency tests; (3) the relationship of minimum competency tests to the regular curriculum and…

This study presents an application of the Rasch equating methodology on a minimum competency testing program in reading and mathematics. Common item equating was performed in two stages to link the 1978-1979 form of the New Jersey Minimum Basic Skills tests to the 1977-1978 form. Both fit to the Rasch model and stability of the common item pools…

The 52 citations listed were compiled to assist educators in the task of designing and implementing minimum competency testing programs. The documents cited were chosen to represent the best and most current literature on minimum competency testing. Entries are arranged alphabetically by author/corporate author, followed by title, imprint, date,…

Reason and evidence provide little, if any, justification for the belief that minimum competency testing will help poor students to learn or poor teachers to teach. (Author)

A program that is used to assist students in overcoming the deficiencies in basic skills in mathematics without making major changes in existing mathematics programs is described. (JT)

The functional literacy movement has emphasized the ability to read job-related materials as a major occupational/functional skill. Various studies, by the Educational Testing Service and others, have supported the contention that the ability to read is a fundamental vocational skill in American society. (CH)

Psychometric issues arising from the use of minimum competency tests in local option states were examined in seven school districts. The effect of variability in reliability and difficulty level of subtests on the accuracy of decisions based on such tests is questioned, particularly as they affect mildly handicapped and marginal students.…

Points to the importance of teaching job literacy. Outlines a method (which was successfully employed in the military) of analyzing job demands, and then constructing and using effective literacy materials. (ARH)

This article examines the goals of secondary vocational education, considers the validity of those goals in light of the existing educational climate, and assesses the extent to which vocational education is meeting those goals. Recommendations are made. (MT)

Discusses the basic computer-oriented skills needed by chemical engineering graduates, suggesting that these skills be introduced and reinforced throughout the chemical engineering curriculum. Issues related to programming and scientific computation are noted. (JN)

The author updates information on teacher competency testing and discusses issues that should be considered by states planning the development and implementation of competency testing programs. Recommendations are made. (MT)

Discusses the arguments for and against minimum competency testing, noting that the same issues are used to support both positions. (FL)