The Presidential Address at the 1986 National Council on Measurement in Education Annual Meeting argues that measurement specialists have tended to set unrealistic aspirations for the role tests play. The conjunctive decision making model is discussed and the use of data in the conjunctive and compensatory decision making models is examined. (JAZ)

This reply to William A. Mehrens argues that test validity is the central issue in discussing the appropriate role of tests. It states that the procedures used to establish the validity of tests are inadequate because they depend primarily on content validity and not on construct and criterion validity. (JAZ)

The President of the National Council on Measurement in Education replies to his critics. He argues that the concept of measurement error should not be used to make cut-scores more valid and that grade point averages have not been demonstrated to be valid indicators of teachers' subject matter competence. (LMO)

Describes the three stages of development of a national computer-based teaching package for school board members: identification of critical school board competencies; development and programing of the computer teaching program; and field and validity testing. (Author/MBR)

The impact on Native Americans, Hispanics, and Caucasians of competency examinations and grade point average requirements for admissions to teacher education programs was investigated. Strategies to lessen this impact are given. (MT)

Examines the reasons for test-centered educational reform and suggests that this has lead to decreased reliance on professional judgment and increased state regulations. Predicts that the operation of the schools as organizations will continue to be affected by the increased reliance on technical evidence. (MLF)

Discusses cases involving a nontenured high school coach's firing, state-mandated competency testing, and civil rights of public employees. (KS)

Reviews current issues involved in teacher training in computer science and literacy and discusses the Northwest Council for Computer Education's project to develop competencies useful in guiding training programs for elementary and secondary teachers as well as computer curriculum coordinators. (MBR)

Presents a four-step conceptual framework for designing workshops to teach educators software infusion (SI), i.e., the use of computer software to enhance instructional effectiveness in school academic areas. Suggestions for implementation and sample worksheets accompany the discussions of each step. (MBR)

Addresses two concerns about how educational reforms are being carried out: (1) the definitions being used to determine what is basic in education, and (2) the tests being used to measure those "basic skills." Suggests some solutions for teachers who recognize the legitimacy of public concern and the necessity of public support. (HTH)

Changes in schools and teacher education programs are interrelated and involve political, economic, social, and educational reforms. This article explores the current situation of the teaching profession and discusses the importance of incentives. (DF)

Annotations are presented of selected ERIC materials on: (1) the state of the art of teacher certification testing; (2) descriptions of specific teacher certification tests; (3) teacher certification test validity; and (4) references for additional reading. (CJB)

Consisting of four articles taken from the "Minneapolis Star Tribune" with 10 questions for each article, this Practice Test gives an answer sheet and an answer key (including specification to the type of question either Literal Comprehension or Inferential Comprehension). These practice tests are not intended to be psychometrically…

This document offers reports on the Maricopa Community College District (Arizona) Governing Board's Goal on Post-Secondary Student Competencies. The report includes detailed information for ten MCCD schools. For example, the 1999-2000 academic year assessment for Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC), analyzed the writing and mathematics…

This article presents Internet websites that align with the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Program's (CACREP) eight common core knowledge areas. The core areas include Professional Identity; Social and Cultural Diversity; Human Growth and Development; Career Development; Helping Relationships; Group Work;…