Evaluated the reliability of a computerized version of the Healthy Start Knowledge Quiz for preschool children. Students completed the computerized test, and data analysis indicated that it was reliable for assessing general health-related knowledge in preschool children from diverse backgrounds, and it was easy to administer with a flexible…

Studied the internal consistency reliability and construct validity of scores on each of five dimensions of a Japanese version of the Dimensions of Self-Concept Scale. Results for 354 female high school students show that a five-factor oblique model accounts for the greatest proportion of covariance in the matrix of 15 subtests. Contains 20…

This study examined the accuracy of a 13-year-old girl's account of a sexually abusive incident. Information given by the victim was compared with an audiotaped record. Over 50% of information reported by the victim was corroborated by the audio record and 64% was confirmed by more than one source. (Author/CR)

This paper discusses psychometric aspects of the functional analysis model in planned intervention with mainstreamed students having emotional/behavioral disorders. Discussion focuses on reliability and validity of clinical analysis of behavior and functional and structural analysis in the classroom. (DB)

Reviews literature and statistical test data from previously administered student evaluations at Middle Tennessee State University to draw conclusions about evaluation reliability. Five series of tests were performed on the evaluations, comparing measures such as time of class and type of course taught. The most notable finding was that…

Discusses some of the major issues faced in attempting to assess systematically the effectiveness of business-communication courses (by assessing the level of improvement of students' writing competency). Discusses goals of assessment, type of test (standardized versus custom-made), guidelines for scoring, use of results, and reliability and…

This study examined the validity and reliability of four assessments, with three instruments per domain, with 103 students at residential secondary schools for the hearing or visually impaired. Domains included generalizable mathematics, communication, interpersonal relations, and reasoning skills. Data suggest the instruments are highly…

A study examined the reliability and validity of the Quality of Life Instrument Package using data from 500 persons with developmental disabilities in Ontario. Data indicate that most of the instruments found in the package met acceptable psychometric standards. Appropriate uses for the full and short version are discussed. (Author/CR)

Using data from state and academic reports, an independent committee of researchers has evaluated the Massachusetts Teacher Tests. Scores are found to be highly unreliable, and the tests are found to contain questionable content. Suspending use of the tests is recommended. (SLD)

The critique of the Massachusetts Teacher Tests by W. Haney and others points out some flaws in the tests but ignores the fact that the tests provide some useful information to guide teacher selection decisions. Calls for additional study of these teacher evaluation instruments. (SLD)

Business undergraduates (n=261) participating in an assessment center simulation were evaluated by graduate students and faculty. Assessor-peer and assessor-self ratings lacked convergent and divergent validity, but self-peer ratings had both. (SK)

A 1929 University of Washington initiative to have students evaluate their classes and instructors is described in detail and analyzed, looking at the construction of the survey, criteria used to assess instruction, use made of the survey's results, and assessment of improvements found in the next semester. (Originally published in 1932) (MSE)

Shows how schools can help students navigate the Internet's complex, often disorganized information landscape and decide about important issues affecting their lives and times. Students must become "infotectives" adept at framing essential questions, planning a cyberspace voyage, collecting pertinent information, changing course, exploiting…

Despite Commissioner Pascal Forgione's claims (in the June 1998 "Kappan"), the final-year Third International Mathematics and Science Study obviates comparison of achievement across nations. Comparers are engaging in a political exercise. There are problems with age, cultural, and enrollment-rate differences; definition of the U.S.…

The leadership characteristics of 163 gifted Chinese secondary students in Hong Kong were assessed with the use of the Roets Rating Scale for Leadership (RRSL). Higher self-ratings were found for characteristics related to aspiring to leadership and achievement, openness to novel experiences and different perspectives, and high energy level than…