A description is given of an experiment on methods of testing, conducted with a mathematics course at University of California - Davis. (PK)

Testing is a means of obtaining information about people and their status. Too often tests and testing govern us as educators rather than being governed by us. Reviews the problem and offers some suggestions. (Editor)

The author began his education career committed to curriculum, not measurement. After years of using teacher-made and standardized tests as instructional afterthoughts, he recognized the superiority of criterion-referenced testing and the influence of high-stakes testing on instruction. He then became involved with developing such tests on a…

Classical procedures for calculating the two indices of decision consistency (P and Kappa) for criterion-referenced tests require two testings on each child. Huynh, Peng, and Subkoviak have presented one-testing procedures for these indices. These indices can be estimated without any test administration using Ebel's estimates of the mean, standard…

Classical test theory is contrasted with new rules of measurement. In the newer, model-based test theory, item response theory (IRT), some old rules of measurement no longer apply. Six old rules that conflict with the new rules are reviewed. Sources of additional information about IRT are listed. (SLD)

This special issue is devoted to current developments in multidimensional item response theory (MIRT). The six papers included in this issue (and two for the March issue) present applications of MIRT to practical testing problems and demonstrate innovative MIRT techniques for assessment. (SLD)

The continuing interest in standardized testing alternatives suggests that the make-a-better-mousetrap mentality still flourishes in education and employment assessment circles. Some promising new testing technologies might broaden the range of human talents assessed. However, educators must refuse to accept bondage to any single technology, no…

Educators' confusion over uses of standardized tests is akin to mistaking pulse rate for the total effect of a health regimen. Using authentic standards and tests to judge intellectual ability is labor-intensive and time-consuming. What students need is a test with more sophisticated criteria for judging performance. Includes 37 references. (MLH)

The Joint Committee on Testing Practices has completed the "Code of Fair Testing Practices in Education," which is meant for the public and focuses on the proper use of tests in education--admissions, educational assessment and diagnosis, and student placement. The Code separately addresses test developers' and users' roles. (SLD)

Describes Ball State University's (BSU's) academic support program for incoming freshmen, which utilizes the "Learning and Study Strategies Inventory" to assess the study skills of incoming freshmen. Indicates that BSU's program enhances student success through promptly identifying student study habit strengths and weaknesses and…

Presents an overview of the applications of microcomputer-based assessment and diagnosis for both educational and psychological placement and interventions. Advantages of computer-based assessment (CBA) over paper-based testing practices are described, the history of computer testing is reviewed, and the construct validity of computer-based tests…

Authentic assessment encompasses methods of evaluating what students know and can do, acknowledging that children learn best when they are actively involved and receive feedback. Criteria for judging authentic assessments include determining their consequences and noting whether they are cost-effective, meaningful, fair, and generalizable, with…

A review of five recent studies concludes that on multiple-choice tests, changing uncertain answers improves results; testing plus feedback produces more learning than additional study time; students learn and retain more when they are tested more often; and question and completion formats are equally acceptable for multiple-choice items. (KS)

Responds to letters to the editor regarding comments on semantics, psychometrics, and assessment reform regarding authentic assessment of student academic achievements. Suggests that psychometric concerns need to be addressed. (MMU)

Describes the development and evaluation of a placement test used as a major determinant of eligibility to enroll in first-semester general chemistry at California State University, Fullerton. Contains 17 references. (WRM)