The relative effectiveness of multiple-choice (MC) and constructed-response (CR) test formats in computer-managed instruction (CMI) were compared using four test groups of 30 trainees each who were assigned nonsystematically from the basics course at the Propulsion Engineering School, Great Lakes Naval Training Center. Group A took module tests in…

This technical note describes part of the work done to develop student achievement tests in reading and mathematics for use in a later phase of the Beginning Teacher Evaluation Study. While the achievement battery consists primarily of group-administered multiple-choice test items, several individual-testing studies were conducted to examine the…

The Australian Science Item Bank consists of three volumes of multiple-choice questions. Book 1 contains questions on Physics and Astronomy. The questions are designed to be suitable for high school students (year 8 to year 12 in Australian schools). The questions are classified by the subject content of the question, the cognitive skills required…

This report describes the development of a criterion-referenced proficiency examination for dental auxiliaries that consists of both written and performance tests in each of five areas: chairside assisting, patient education, diagnostic aids, therapeutics, and laboratory procedures. The content outlines of the tests are presented. The formation of…

The chemistry test item banks contains 225 multiple-choice questions suitable for diagnostic and achievement testing; a three-page teacher's guide; answer key with item facilities; an answer sheet; and a 45-item sample achievement test. Although written for the new grade 12 chemistry course in Victoria, Australia, the items are widely applicable.…

Three test-analysis models were used to analyze three types of simulated test score data plus the results of eight achievement tests. Chi-square goodness-of-fit statistics were used to evaluate the appropriateness of the models to the four kinds of data. Data were generated to simulate the responses of 1,000 students to 36 pseudo-items by…

Several measurement theorists have convincingly argued that methods of writing test questions, particularly for criterion-referenced tests, should be based on operationally defined rules. This study was designed to examine and further refine a method for objectively generating multiple-choice questions for prose instructional materials. Important…

Designed as an accompaniment to college level microeconomics lectures, (see SO 011 936), the package contains materials for four approaches to the microeconomics course. The course covers topics of economic concepts, issues, and tools; demand; supply; price and output determination in markets; marginal equivalency conditions and economic…

The purpose of the study was to compare the effectiveness with which composition skills could be taught by the traditional theme-assignment approach and by an experimental method using weekly multiple-choice composition tests in lieu of theme writing. The weekly tests were based on original but typical first-draft compositions and covered problems…

Three techniques of integrative FL testing are specifically discussed: dictation, cloze testing and noise testing. Studies show that dictation, when properly conducted, is a useful and efficient measure of overall language proficiency. Cloze testing is defined and illustrated with four examples, each with a different format. Noise or interference…

The University of Iowa has been involved with the development, implementation, and operation of computer-based test-item pools and a test construction and course management system titled IPSIM (Iowa's Item Pool System for Instructional Management), originally devised for a freshman medical course in the Pathology Department of the College of…

The purpose of this investigation was to identify factors involved in adult student achievement and behavior in short concentrated management courses and to develop and test hypotheses regarding these factors in order to provide a basis for improvement of educational practices associated with such courses. One hundred and two adults divided in…

A pilot research study searched for appropriate methods to evaluate instructional television (ITV). The specific objectives were to find ways to measure: 1) the degree to which the media presentation's objectives were being met, and 2) the appeal of the show, as judged by viewers' attention. Five intermediate grade level educable mentally retarded…

In response to the need for sound classroom evaluation procedures, educational objectives in the area of geography are defined. In addition, suggestions and examples of test construction, based on the experiences and judgments of evaluators as well as on research findings from education and geography, are offered. (CK)

The evolution of the Medial College Admission Test (MCAT), its present constitution and operation, and plans for its future are discussed. Also included is a current selected bibliography on the test. (AG)