Discusses the purposes and goals of mathematics assessment, the features of locally developed versus standardized tests, the validation of assessment tests, the decisions made from test scores, and the fair preparation of students. (DMM)

The success of Asian-American students has created a "model minority" stereotype of "grade grinds" geared to outperform their native-born peers. However, Asians are from diverse countries and economic backgrounds. Many experience problems with parent and teacher expectations, leave school early, or face hostility from other students and…

The 1987 survey of 57 residential schools for the deaf found that the varying state interpretations of Least Restrictive Environment under Public Law 94-142 are a major determining factor in the role played by the residential school. Survey results were compared to a similar 1977 survey. (DB)

The study compared teachers' ratings of the mathematics achievement of severely to profoundly hearing impaired Israeli students in special schools, special classes, and mainstream placement. When variables related to communication skills and intellectual potential were controlled, teacher ratings of student mathematical achievement was lower for…

Three procedures for the detection of differential item functioning under item response theory were compared. Data for 2 forms of a mathematics test taken by 1,490 college students were analyzed through F. M. Lord's chi-square, N. S. Raju's area measures, and the likelihood ratio test. (SLD)

This response to an article by Bruce Taylor on inclusion of students with disabilities in regular classes argues that it is not possible to meet the needs of all children in the general education classroom and points out that inclusion is generally favored by advocacy groups for low-incidence disabilities and policymakers wanting to cut costs. (DB)

The influence of assessment reports on special educators' instructional planning decisions was evaluated, with 86 educators of students with severe mental retardation. Compared to educators reading a developmental assessment report, educators reading a functional assessment report for the same student recommended less restrictive placements for…

This paper argues for considering the uniqueness of each student with serious emotional/behavioral disorders when deciding on placement. A full continuum of alternatives should be considered, including the possibility that a self-contained class with a low student/teacher ratio may be the least restrictive setting needed to produce successful…

This study examined whether Texas students who are gifted and learning disabled are being identified for gifted programs. Survey results from gifted program coordinators (n=386) showed that few school districts (n=75) selected gifted children with learning disabilities for gifted programs. Fewer districts reported identification of these students…

The use of a computer-based expert system (the HISAT Advisor) to make decisions about educational placements of students who are deaf and hard of hearing was compared to placement decisions made by teachers. For 10 student cases, a 90 percent match occurred between the expert system's decision and the majority decision of teachers. (SW)

Children with hearing impairments in three types of placements were evaluated three to four years after enrollment to determine whether changes had occurred in performance intelligence quotients. Results demonstrated significant gains for commuters and residents attending a residential school, in contrast to no change for children attending a…

Reports a study of a retention procedure in Texas in which children are placed in prefirst grade classrooms rather than promoted to regular first grade after kindergarten. Discusses the procedure's effectiveness and appropriateness, reasons for children's placement, children's behavioral problems, parental motivation and approval, and student…

In the process of strengthening undergraduate mathematics, educators at the American University (District of Columbia) surveyed similar institutions concerning mathematics placement, course requirements, and perceptions of student attitudes. They found common concerns but no obvious solutions. It is concluded that curricular change must be…

This analysis of national program record data since 1977 found that, overall, increases have occurred in placements of students with disabilities within general public schools and within general education classes. Integration patterns, however, have varied substantially across disabilities, with students having sensory impairments showing the most…

This study of 325 adolescents with deafness found that students who attended more classes and more academically demanding classes had higher achievement levels across placement categories. The cumulative effect of mainstream placement may be, in part, a product of different patterns of educational programing. Race was also a factor in achievement.…