The Bayesian approach to setting passing scores, as proposed by Swaminathan, Hambleton, and Algina, is compared with the empirical Bayes approach to the same problem that is derived from Huynh's decision-theoretic framework. Comparisons are based on simulated data which follow an approximate beta-binomial distribution and on real test results from…

A comparison was made between four different scoring procedures for the 45-item Reading Comprehension subtest, Level I, of the Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills, Form S, for a sample of 1,000 third grade students. These students were selected to have been among those who omitted from 3 to 22 of the 45 items. Another representative sample of 1,300…

It has been shown that Guttman weighting of test options results in marked increases in the internal consistency of a test. However, the effect of this type of weighting on the structure of the test is not known. Hence, the purpose of this study is to compare the factor structure of Guttman-weighted and rights-only-weighted tests and to relate the…

Binary, probability, and ordinal scoring procedures for multiple-choice items were examined. In two situations, it was found that both the probability and ordinal scoring systems were more reliable than the binary scoring method. (Author/CTM)

When applicants for the cooperative office education program exceed space and funds, the coordinator must have a sound basis for selecting students. This article presents both fixed and variable selection criteria to enable the coordinator to evaluate applicants with minimum subjectivity. (MF)

Two criteria are discussed for determining cutting scores on a predictor variable for identifying cases of likely child abuse--utility maximizing and error minimizing. Utility maximizing is the preferable criterion, as it optimizes the balance between the costs of incorrect decisions and the benefits of correct decisions. (Author/JDD)

Four methods are outlined for estimating or approximating from a single test administration the standard error of measurement of number-right test score at specified ability levels or cutting scores. The methods are illustrated and compared on one set of real test data. (Author)

The study examined (1) whether 60 elementary school teachers could score moral thought statements into Kohlberg's moral stages by receiving special training and using a rater manual, and (2) what factors were related to their stage-scoring ability. Major conclusion was that the rater manual and training were ineffective. (Author/ND)

Suggests approximately 200 words of religious denotation that should be added to the Dale-Chall List of 3,000 Familiar Words when assessing the readability of materials that contain a Catholic vocabulary." (VJ)

Alternate versions of Hutchinson's theory were compared, and one which implies the existence of partial knowledge was found to be better than one which implies that an appropriate measure of ability is obtained by applying the conventional correction for guessing. (Author/PN)

The outcomes of two scoring methods (one based on an error analysis and the second on a conventional method) on free-response tests, compared in terms of reliability and dimensionality, indicates the conventional method is inferior in both aspects. (Author/PN)

Number right and elimination scores were analyzed on a college level mathematics exam assembled from pretest data. Anxiety measures were administered along with the experimental forms to undergraduates. Results suggest that neither test scores nor attitudes are influenced by item order knowledge thereof, or anxiety level. (Author/GK)

A mathematics achievement test with instructions to avoid guessing wildly was given to 168 elementary school pupils who were later asked to complete all the questions using a differently colored pencil. Results showed examinees, particularly the more able students, tend to omit too many items. (CTM)

The present study was an attempt to alleviate some of the difficulties inherent in multiple-choice items by having examinees respond to multiple-choice items in a probabilistic manner. Using this format, examinees are able to respond to each alternative and to provide indications of any partial knowledge they may possess concerning the item. The…

The decline in writing ability among students entering college can be attributed to such factors as the absence of verbal precision in television, advertising, and political language, the lack of writing practice in high school English classes, overloaded and unprepared English teachers, and the difficulties involved in evaluating student writing.…