Possible interpretive arguments for licensure and certification test scores are examined, and evidence to support each type of argument is analyzed. Particular attention is given to a competency-based argument that involves a sequence of inferences from test scores to statements about competence and then to conclusions about expected performance.…

Argues that the loss-function analysis used to adjust the census of 1990 depends on estimating probable errors in census and adjustment and that data from field-validation projects does not provide estimates accurate enough for the purpose. The loss-function analysis is actually driven by assumptions, not data. (SLD)

This commentary responds to a critique (EC 601 711) of a paper (EC 211 387) concerning use of cluster analysis to develop a taxonomy of lifestyles of families with severely mentally retarded children. The commentary considers the model to be useful in social science inquiry, and properly validated when using cluster analytic techniques. (JDD)

A diagnostic assessment system--based on performance specifications of the American Association of School Administrators' National Executive Development Center concerning instructional leadership for superintendents and assistants--was field tested with over 250 executives and evaluated using 89 executives. Data support continued use of the 42…

A survey of 12 Canadian ministers of education and 18 colleges found that (1) high school graduation requirements reflect college entrance requirements; (2) the rigid pattern of course requirements for college entrance is not supported by research; and (3) conflicting views on this issue indicate a need for in-depth exploration. (SK)

Examined factors that would predict both academically successful and at-risk freshmen engineering students. Found 12 variables were correlated with grade point ratio for the 114 participants in first year of study. Applied algorithm for predicting students at risk developed in first year to 317 students and found that it more accurately assigned…

The validity of the Questionnaire on Resources and Stress (QRS) and the Parenting Stress Index (PSI) was examined in a study of 53 mothers with young children in early intervention programs. Expectations that QRS and PSI scores were related in expected ways were generally confirmed. (Author/LB)

Thirty-one children (aged 6-10) with auditory processing problems completed the Staggered Spondaic Words (SSW) Test and a battery of auditory-language tests. No significant correlations were found between the SSW right competing and left competing conditions and the auditory-language tests, suggesting that these two approaches measure different…

A study examined the predictive validity of 3 commonly used nursing school admission criteria among 321 students in 6 representative Israeli nursing schools. Correlations among the three indices are reported, and implications for nursing school admissions in Israel are discussed. (Author/MSE)

Describes study that tested the validity of the Computer Anxiety Rating Scale (CARS) with MBA students. Demographic traits and cognitive styles are considered, the effect of computer courses on computer anxiety is studied, and factor analysis is used to assess the construct validity of the CARS. (24 references) (LRW)

Examined validity and reliability of Hutchins Behavior Inventory (HBI), instrument designed to assess client's thinking, feeling, or acting dominance. Findings from 172 student residence hall counselors demonstrated good construct validity of the HBI and sufficient reliability. Moderate reliability estimates for intensity scores and somewhat low…

This article reviews research on child development relevant to the question of the veracity of mistreatment allegations made by children ages two to five years. The article covers research on thought and language, memory and learning, fears, fantasy, play, and television's effects. It is concluded that preschoolers base their play on the reality…

This study evaluated child sexual abuse statistics since introduction of a child sexual abuse program in 1985 in Shelby County, Tennessee. Findings suggest a highly fluctuating validation rate, higher validation rates for girls than boys, possible underreporting of male victims, and 78 percent of the perpetrators being known to their victims.…

In program evaluation and policy analyses, utility supplants rigor as the first and most important criterion in judging literature reviews. Although R. T. Ogawa and B. Malen emphasize rigor, a utilization-focused evaluation emphasizes purpose and audience, both of which affect the conduct of a multivocal literature review. (SLD)

Describes development of a brief scale to assess public attitudes toward homelessness (PATH). Responses of 222 adults in New York (New York) to the PATH scale and 5 brief scales suggest the PATH scale's reliability and construct validity. The PATH scale can aid analysis of public perceptions of homelessness. (SLD)