This paper provides a brief history of attempts to monitor testing in the United States. It describes proposals for monitoring from the first attempts in the 1920s to similar proposals in the 1990s. The discussion focuses on: (1) Giles Ruche's proposal for a consumer research bureau on tests; (2) Oscar K. Burros' reviews of tests and efforts to…

As a result of this study, the following statement will be included in the 1973-74 ACT Supervisor's Manual of Instructions: Test center supervisors are encouraged to enlist room supervisors and proctors that reflect the racial, ethnic, and sex ratios of the examinees.'' (Author)

This article describes a project conducted jointly by guidance personnel at a high school and a two year branch campus of a State University. The purpose of the project was to investigate the feasibility of using data from the existing high school testing program to enhance both academic and vocational guidance at the two institutions. (JC)

Test scores reflect students' abilities in the specific areas examined. The use of these scores in an educationally meaningful way can result in improved guidance services. (CK)

Typescript excerpts from group counseling sessions suggest that schools of education need to pitch their teaching and testing at higher cognitive levels. Giving primary attention to the bare knowledge or memory level is not only ineffective but also an unnecessary source of resentment among students. (Author)

The amount of testing in U.S. schools is substantial. A strong testing program is seen as one of the major factors in effective schools. The authority of a testing program can be enhanced by teacher involvement, specialists' endorsement, formal adoption by a school, and promotion by a principal. (NJ)

Presents a test that teaches test-taking strategies and that can be used to reduce students' test anxiety. (AEA)

Describes a program to certify state and district judges of high school debate tournaments. Covers constructing the written test, evaluating the ballot test, implementing certification, and assessing the program. (PD)

Reviews various issues related to developing a single system of examining at 16+ to replace the General Certificate of Education and the Certificate of Secondary Education, including current assessment techniques and activities of groups involved in developing this common examination system. (SK)

Standardized testing is here to stay. Critics are serving a useful purpose in that they force users to examine benefits and the drawbacks. This process has an inevitable spinoff effect since almost every user of standardized tests is involved in a classroom situation where informal testing is ongoing. (Author)

Critically examines the arguments of Leon Lessinger for teacher accountability and applicability of these arguments to early childhood education. (Author/SS)

Background information about the first mathematics examinations given at Harvard in the academic year 1854-55 is given. The two instructors, Pierce and Eliot, responsible for the innovation are discussed. (MK)

Compares the results of the first and second years of testing in the Florida minimum competency program to show that the program is working. (IRT)

New Title I legislation--the Improving America's Schools Act--mandates that students with disabilities be included in district and statewide assessments beginning in 2001, or immediately, if such assessments already exist. Administrators should include handicapped students in assessments, when in doubt; provide needed accommodations; and report…

Provides an update on the current status of high stakes testing and accountability programs in the United States, conducts a review of important litigation related to high stakes accountability, and highlights best practices for policy makers based on the development of the Arkansas accountability program. (SLD)