The level of confidence in pass/fail decisions obtained with computerized adaptive tests and paper-and-pencil tests was greater for 645 medical technology students when the computer adaptive test implemented a 90 percent confidence stopping rule than for paper-and-pencil tests of comparable length. (SLD)

This article reviews the content and procedural requirements of social competence assessment for children with disabilities and presents information on multiperspective prototype assessments using a videodisc and a microcomputer with a "touch screen." Preliminary psychometric data on sensitivity, reliability, and construct validity are…

Reports on a set of three studies that compared responses to commonly used attitude and personality questionnaires administered by computer with those administered in written form. Subjects' affective reactions to the two modes of administration were also examined. Overall the differences between the two conditions were negligible. (25 references)…

This study explored the relationship between traditional item difficulty and cognitive complexity as measured by response time. Rural students (n=43) responded to computer-based tests of the Individualized Study by Technology General Mathematics Course developed by Alaska's Department of Education. Results indicated that mean response times were…

When preparing middle-level students for the information Age, educators must consider staff-development needs in the areas of computer technology and portfolio design; classroom restructuring for project-based curriculum; integrated subject disciplines; and alignment of the portfolio approach to school, district, state, and parental expectations…

Effects of the following variables on performance of computerized adaptive testing (CAT) procedures for the partial credit model (PCM) were studied: (1) stopping rule for terminating CAT; (2) item pool size; and (3) distribution of item difficulties. Implications of findings for CAT systems based on the PCM are discussed. (SLD)

Describes two studies evaluating developmental reading instruction at Suffolk Community College, New York. One compared grade point averages (GPAs) for developmental reading students and two naturally occurring comparison groups. The other used pre- and posttest scores on the College Board's Computerized Placement Tests to document developmental…

Considers how the development of a computer-based microconcordance program could be used to produce cloze tests that do more than present a mutilated text derived from a single source, with an example within the context of advanced learners of English-as-a-Second-Language. (CB)

The article offers guidance on integrating computer software into instruction during the instructional phases of independent practice and assessment. Desirable software features for independent practice include a quick response rate, escalating feedback, and motivational features. Assessment can be conducted by using data stored by the computer,…

Describes the use of interactive videodiscs in Dutch secondary vocational school departments of pharmaceutical education for testing theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a simulated real-life situation. An example is given, feedback and scoring are explained, and criteria for reliability with a classical text analysis are discussed.…

Discusses criteria for selecting course-development software for multimedia distance-learning projects, particularly for business training. Course creation (including test generation), content delivery (including links to other applications, client software, and collaboration and communication capabilities), and administration and management…

Analyzes results of a previous study on speech recognition (SR) technology for its ability to distinguish between native- and nonnative English speakers. The current study concludes that SR technology has potential for testing the oral proficiency of English-as-a-Second-Language students.(ER)

Presents an analysis of the correlation between computerized placement test scores and subsequent academic performance for 74 2-year college students. Finds a low correlation between scores and course pass rates. Suggests that other qualitative measures be employed in addition to computerized testing to assess students. (12 citations) (BCY)

Recounts the use of a computer-mediated proficiency test in an intensive international teaching assistant workshop. Both traditional raw score analyses and item response theory analyses done on the test data are described in detail. Indicated that the test was not suitable for making exemption and retention decisions with this particular group of…

Familiarizes test users with issues to consider when employing assessments for screening and admission purposes. Examines the purpose, content, and scoring methods of three English-as-a-Second-Language admissions tests--the Cambridge certificate exams, International English Language Teaching System, and Test of English as a Foreign…