This paper reports on the results of a usability study that investigated the suitability of using an open systems approach for developing an online assessment application. Issues examined included ease of use, security, effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. Participants were 68 preservice teachers taking a technology integration course. Students…

Describes testing programs in Canada and suggests cautions to be used in psychological and diagnostic testing. Also discusses the use of standardized tests, computers, test validity and effectiveness, and parent attitudes. The demands of accountability and better management require counselor attention to testing and guidance. (JAC)

This discussion provides an overview of the kinds of technological resources available to support language learning and of various approaches to using them, and explores some issues surrounding the trend. Topics considered include efficacy, availability, computer-mediated technologies, software acquisition and content, material evaluation,…

Discussion of individual learning styles focuses on a study of 13-year-old students in the United Kingdom that investigated the development of a computer-presented test of verbal-imagery learning styles. Ability grouping and test performance results are described, and implications for computer-based training (CBT) are discussed. (six references)…

Describes study that was designed to compare student achievement scores from three different testing methods: paper-administered testing, computer-administered testing, and computerized adaptive testing. The California Assessment Program (CAP) item banks for grades three and six which this study incorporated are described, and results are…

Describes a microcomputer-based examination system based on multiple choice questions (MCQ) that has been used for the assessment of aptitude in chemistry. The ability of the system to generate a test based on a student's previous performance is explained, and the system design and implementation are detailed. (eight references) (Author/LRW)

Describes an experimental program of interactive assessment and instruction called GUIDES to Learning and Instruction, which is designed for use in college level remedial and developmental programs in writing, reading, and study skills. Highlights include microcomputer administration of measurement; response formats; feedback; validity for…

Describes the Technical Literacy Project which was developed at the University of Nottingham to examine and compare the computer literacy skills of graduating secondary school students and industry workers. The use of Macintosh computers and HyperCard software is explained; gender differences are examined; and results showing better performances…

The evaluator is an instructional system product that provides practice, testing capability, and feedback in a way not yet seen in computer-assisted instruction. Training methods using an evaluator contain scenario-based simulation exercises, followed by a critique of performance. A focus on competency-based education and performance makes the…

Views the learning resources center (LRC) as the most accessible place at two-year colleges to apply microcomputers to instruction, pointing to the potential for LRC involvement in microlabs, computer-assisted instruction, staff development, software collection development, providing assistance with interactive authoring systems, automated…

In this study, 590 third graders from 12 Dutch schools took 32 tests indicating 16 semantic Structure-of-Intellect (SI) abilities and 1 of 4 reading comprehension tests, involving either multiple-choice or open-ended items. Results indicate that item type for reading comprehension is congeneric with respect to SI abilities measured. (TJH)

An ongoing research program is examining use of technology to surmount difficulties in incorporating curriculum-based measurement in instructional programs for students with disabilities. The use of computers to assume the mechanical aspects of measurement and to help teachers translate assessment information into feasible instructional…

Outlines the rationale for a course designed to deliver key spatial skills to a large cohort of students using computer-aided learning methods and the World Wide Web. Examines the results in the context of using technology to enhance learning. Follows up by noting and assessing subsequent changes to the course. (DSK)

Describes three technology-based alternative approaches to traditional classroom instruction that have been tried at Columbus State University (Georgia) to meet the needs of nontraditional part-time students: vendor-developed courses delivered via the internet; vendor-developed tutorials and tests on CD-ROM; and instructor-developed and…

Computerized-adaptive (CAT) and self-adapted (SAT) music listening tests were compared for efficiency, reliability, validity, and motivational benefits with 53 junior high school students. Results demonstrate trade-offs, with greater potential motivational benefits for SAT and greater efficiency for CAT. SAT elicited more favorable responses from…