Examined whether differences in counselors' retention of information about a female and a male client in a previous study would also be obtained with a noncounselor sample of 218 college students. In findings similar to those of the previous study, participants retained less information under the female client conditions, indicating a possible…

Discusses the flaws in online catalogs that lead to ineffective library use, including confusing subject access, outmoded classification systems, lack of authority control, split files and closed catalogs, lack of both menu and command modes, and lack of circulation information. Recommendations are made for improving library catalogs. (EM)

This paper reports on the psychometric properties of a multidimensional inventory battery used for evaluating the parenting behavior of 693 parents enrolled in family support programs. Parents, depression, knowledge of child development, attitudes toward child rearing, and available social support were studied. Inventory can be administered with…

Proposes a framework for foreign language testing that consists of several different types of speech interactions. The interactions are assessed with rating scales whose criteria vary according to the intended use of the test results. The framework is evaluated in terms of reliability and validity. A sample oral test is given. (Author/DJD)

Second-year medical students (N=187) evaluated their own videotaped performances during physical assessment examinations. Peers and expert evaluators also rated the performances. Significant differences emerged across types of raters. Results show that these students do not accurately assess their own or peers' skills performances. (TJH)

A Confidence-rating scale accompanying answers on a listening test helps distinguish between learners who select answers based on effective self-monitoring and those whose answers are based on poor self-monitoring. The latter are more likely to do so subsequently as well. Test items and a rating scale are illustrated. (Author/LMO)

This study examined the score level, extent of test completion, and test reliability for visually impaired, physically handicapped, and nonhandicapped groups taking the Graduate Record Examinations General Test. Results included the finding that performance of visually handicapped groups approximated that of nondisabled examinees, although…

The efficacy of Raven's Matrices in the gifted identification process is reviewed, focusing on their reliability, validity, and fairness and comparing them with other intelligence tests. It is concluded that, despite problems with narrowness of scope and standardization practices, these tests provide a useful screening device for intellectually…

Studied how individuals test hypotheses about themselves. Examined extent to which Snyder's bias toward confirmation persists when negative or nonconsistent personal hypothesis is tested. Found negativity or positivity did not affect hypothesis testing directly, though hypothesis consistency did. Found cognitive schematic variable (vulnerability…

This study compares physician performance on the Computer-Aided Simulation of the Clinical Encounter with peer ratings and performance on multiple choice questions and patient management problems. Results indicate that all formats are equally valid, although multiple choice is the most reliable method of assessment per unit of testing time.…

Research reported in this paper considered the construct validity of a trial essay administered in 1985-87 Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The addition of the essay caused the non-science factor observed in previous MCAT research to be more strongly defined. (Author/LMO)

Results of field testing for reliability and validity the Generalizable Mathematics Skills Student Self-Ratings (SSR), Teacher Ratings (TR), and Performance Test (PT) assessment instruments with 138 handicapped secondary students in vocational programs and their vocational teachers (N=5) found sufficient content and face validity and relatively…

The reliability and factorial validity of the Self Concept as a Learner Scale was studied, using 12-year-old Anglo-Australians. Reliability was acceptable for total scale and three subscales (task orientation, problem solving, and class membership), but not motivation. The validity of the factorial subscales was not confirmed. (GDC)

The construct validity and reliability of the Porter Needs Satisfaction Questionnaire (adapted) for educators were examined. Results did not support its use as suggested by Porter. Suggestions for its revision and alternate use are presented. (Author/GDC)

A computer program developed at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine presents simulated patient cases and then scores participants' clinical problem-solving in the cases by comparing their performances with those of faculty members. The validity and reliability of this evaluation system was investigated. (Author/MLW)