Reports the development and score validation of an instrument for measuring anxieties students experience in college chemistry laboratories. Factor analysis of scores from 361 college students shows that the developed Chemistry Laboratory Anxiety Instrument measures five constructs. Results from a second sample of 598 students show that scores on…

On two occasions, 78 undergraduates completed the Merkler Style Preference Inventory (MSPI) and either the Strong Interest Inventory or Kuder Preference Record. Factor analyses provided preliminary support for the MSPI as an instrument for assessing vocational interests. Evidence of its predictive validity is still needed. (SK)

Comparability of two forms of the CCTST is evaluated. Data are compared with a previously reported study; relationships to comparable tests are considered. Evidence indicates low internal-consistency reliability estimates, a lack of comparability, and poor construct validity for Forms A and B of the CCTST. (Author/EMK)

The reliability and validity properties of the Brigance K&1 screen were examined with a sample of 134 Head Start children preparing to enter kindergarten. Prediction/outcome analyses, intended to explore the test's accuracy in predicting special-education status at the end of preschool, indicated a relatively high false negative rate and a…

In Scotland, one "value added" (VA) indicator of secondary school effectiveness measures students' relative "progress" between Standard and Higher grade in particular subjects. When random nonschool factors affecting students' geography performance were computer-simulated to determine VA fluctuation over 25 years, the…

Explores how reliability and validity of assessment results should be conceived and covered in teacher education. Discusses each of the standards for teacher competence in assessment developed by the American Federation of Teachers in conjunction with other groups. Reviews coverage of these topics in frequently used textbooks. (SLD)

The relationship between teachers' judgments of students' academic achievement and students' performances on an achievement test was investigated (N=12 teachers; N=47 students). Accuracy of teachers' judgments, the relationship between judgments and performances, and the effect of high vs. low achievement status on judgments were studied.…

A study involving 92 adults with mental retardation examined the validity and reliability of the Leisure Assessment Inventory. Two indexes (Leisure Activities Participation and Leisure Interests) demonstrated higher reliability from test to retest whereas the remaining two (Leisure Preference and Leisure Constraints) showed only moderate…

Describes the development of the College and University Community Inventory (CUCI), an instrument designed to measure the extent of community within colleges and universities for students. Article discusses the methods for establishing the instrument's validity and ascertaining reliability indices. (Contains 18 references.) (Author/GCP)

Demonstrates the use of Generalizability (G) theory as an alternative method of validating direct behavioral measures. Reliability and validity from a classic test score theory are explored and rephrased in terms of G theory. Two studies that used oral reading fluency measures within a curriculum-based measurement approach are examined with G…

Reciprocal, paired, qualitative, formative peer assessment of academic writing by 12 educational psychology postgraduate students was compared to staff assessments. Although there was very little evidence of conflict between views of staff and peers, assessments focused on different details. Students found the process time consuming,…

This study evaluated the reliability of the Child Behavior Checklist with 42 children and youth with mild mental retardation. Use of kappa coefficients and intra-class correlations at item and syndrome levels indicated that the Child Behavior Checklist may not always represent a reliable checklist for the assessment of psychopathology in this…

Presents data showing that the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory's (CDI) large variability, lack of stability, and insufficient ability to predict early language delay are authentic reflections of individual differences in early language development rather than measurement deficiencies. Responds to critiques regarding sociodemographic…

Outlines the purposes of statistical analysis and types of research questions that can be answered. Defines data types as a guide for choosing statistical tools. Describes a hypothetical research study on teaching computer software to illustrate the use of analytical tools. (SK)

Developed a new instrument, the Basic Technology Competencies for Educators Inventory (BTCEI), using the responses of 437 undergraduate and graduate teacher education students. Results support the theoretical structure of the BTCEI. Scores for the nine domains had high internal consistency reliability and adequate stability reliability. (SLD)