Item scores that do not fit an assumed item response theory model may cause the latent trait value to be estimated inaccurately. For computerized adaptive tests (CAT) with dichotomous items, several person-fit statistics for detecting nonfitting item score patterns have been proposed. Both for paper-and-pencil (P&P) test and CATs, detection of…

The convention for selecting starting points (that is, initial items) on a computerized adaptive test (CAT) is to choose as starting points items of medium difficulty for all examinees. Selecting a starting point based on prior information about an individual's ability was first suggested many years ago, but has been believed unimportant provided…

The purposes of this study were to: (1) extend the sequential probability ratio testing (SPRT) procedure to polytomous item response theory (IRT) models in computerized classification testing (CCT); (2) compare polytomous items with dichotomous items using the SPRT procedure for their accuracy and efficiency; (3) study a direct approach in…

In this paper we provide a rationale and approach for articulating a conceptual framework and corresponding development resources to guide the design of science inquiry assessments. Important here is attention to how and why research on cognition and learning, advances in technological capability, and development of sophisticated methods and…

Following a discussion of drill/practice and tutorial programing techniques (SE 533 144), this part focuses on techniques dealing with text problems. Various listings are included to demonstrate such methods as the READ/DATA approach in presenting questions to students. (JN)

A method for computer grading pharmaceutical calculations exams in which students convert their answers into scientific notation and enter their solutions onto a mark sense form is described. A table is generated and then posted listing student identification numbers, exam grades, and which problems were missed. (Author/MLW)

Reports a number of modifications to the computer readability program STAR (Simple Tests Approach to Readability) designed to make it more useful. (FL)

Describes a procedure for using the computer to assist in evaluating the progress of students on pretests, unit tests, posttests or a combination of tests. The use of computers to evaluate cognitive objectives of a course is examined. Twenty-four references are listed. (MER)

Describes an easy-to-use set of computer programs for the generation of multiple-choice and essay examinations in an introductory astronomy course. Program enables the user to establish files of test questions and to rapidly assemble printed copies of examinations suitable for photocopying. (Author/GS)

As computers become increasingly available to public schools, physical education teachers and coaches will have access to the many services and conveniences the computer offers. Physical education majors should be kept current with technology that affects their professional development. (CJ)

This article describes Minnesota Computerized Adaptive Testing Language program code for using the MicroCAT 3.5 testing software to administer several types of self-adapted tests. Code is provided for: a basic self-adapted test; a self-adapted version of an adaptive mastery test; and a restricted self-adapted test. (Author/SLD)

Evaluated whether variance due to computer-based presentation was associated with performance on a new constructed-response type, Mathematical Expression, that requires students to enter expressions. No statistical evidence of construct-irrelevant variance was detected for the 178 undergraduate and graduate students, but some examinees reported…

An alternative method for scoring adaptive tests, based on number-correct scores, is explored and compared with a method that relies more directly on item response theory. Using the number-correct score with necessary adjustment for intentional differences in adaptive test difficulty is a statistically viable scoring method. (SLD)

Common strategies for dealing with flawed items in conventional testing, grounded in principles of fairness to examinees, are re-examined in the context of adaptive testing. The additional strategy of retesting from a pool cleansed of flawed items is found, through a Monte Carlo study, to bring about no practical improvement. (SLD)

Assesses the reliability and validity of the Web-based version of the Career Key. Participants completed the Web-based version of the Career Key and the Self-Directed Search-Form R and completed a second Career Key administration 2 weeks later. Test-retest reliability ranged between .75 and .84. With the exception of the conventional scale, all…