The standardization approach to comprehensive differential item functioning is described and contrasted with the log-linear approach to differential distractor functioning and the item-response-theory-based approach to differential alternative functioning. Data from an edition of the Scholastic Aptitude Test illustrate application of the approach…

This article illustrates the use of monologue interpretation, in which an interpreter illuminates issues in a speaker's monologue to translate theoretical pedagogical material into usable classroom applications. The example shows how the tenets of Guba and Lincoln's (1989) Responsive Constructivist Fourth Generation Model were presented via…

This paper discusses dynamic/interactive approaches to psychological assessment based on the concept of induced change as a research tactic. Studies are reviewed showing how interactive assessment has yielded new knowledge in psychopathology; neuropsychology; learning disabilities; intelligence testing (in normal, deaf, and immigrant children);…

Findings from a study of 109 Israeli day-care providers suggest that they classify, label, and evaluate infant behavior in the Strange Situation procedure much like attachment theorists do. The relatively independent infants were viewed most positively and most providers preferred to interact with these infants. (SLD)

This article examines why Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities often lack validity and accuracy and offers methods to make IEPs more responsive to student education needs. These methods focus on holistic assessment including such strategies as observation, story retellings, oral and silent reading, writing…

Discussion of performance indicators, used for evaluation and funding of higher education institutions by some governments, looks at what is meant by the term and their role in government-institutional relations. A series of propositions for their definition and use are offered, with supporting information drawn from the experiences of different…

Five countable indices of writing quality were examined for their suitability in making special education screening-eligibility decisions, based on writing samples from 2,160 students. Even the best index was only moderately efficient. "Percentage of words spelled correctly" was best overall, and "percentage of correct word sequences" was best for…

The problems faced by the author as an external evaluator responsible for evaluating a grass roots initiative for school managers in Great Britain are examined. The focus is on evaluating a management development program in the field and training an evaluator, rather than on outcomes of the program itself. (SLD)

Describes the Library of Congress' American Memory Project, involving conversion of U.S. archival treasures to electronic format for distribution to other locations. Highlights include subject matter currently released, the beta-test procedure, promoting the new resource, and experiences of several library test sites. Sample screen displays are…

The future of program evaluation is bright if evaluators do not ignore their roots in quantitative research. The current interest in qualitative approaches and the call for a "fourth generation" in evaluation should not override training in quantitative research. Qualitative research should complement, rather than replace, traditional…

Word lists spoken in Castillian, Caribbean, and Mexican dialects were compared to identify speech reception thresholds in 12 Spanish-speaking, Puerto Rican children (ages 6-7). No statistically significant differences were found among the dialects. (Author/DB)

This paper offers a rationale for and a description of the creation of the Developmentally Delayed Children's Behaviour Checklist, which is completed by caregivers or teachers and uses a taxonometric model to describe the child's (ages 4-20) disturbed emotions and behaviors. Results of clinical validation studies are cited. (Author/JDD)

Describes developments in the fields of learning theory, assessment, and politics of national and state assessments. Shows how use of these developments and modern assessment and evaluation methodologies can address some long-standing problems in Chapter 1 evaluation. Focuses on linking classroom and school improvement with Chapter 1 program…

Describes campus violence found on college campus, including rape, assault, hazing, harassment, and bias-related violence. Offers set of guidelines to assist high school students in assessing campus safety at colleges and universities they may be considering. Discusses high school counselor's role in providing information and perspectives that…

This article provides an assessment tool and guidelines for creating instructional programing in aquatic skills development for children with disabilities functioning below levels required for most adapted beginning aquatics programs. It covers individualized goals and objectives, adjustment to the water, and specific aquatic skills. (DB)