Derived appropriate K-corrections for Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-168 factor scales and a general psychopathology screening scale (PSY). Determined percentile distributions of K-corrected scales in a normal sample (N=1438) and constructed a percentile profile sheet to facilitate clinical use (N=1048). Examined validity of the…

Examined the Tennessee Self Concept Scale for cultural and sex differences with college students (N=202). Data did not support generalizability of normed data across cultures. Analysis showed significant differences according to sex of respondent, and raised questions concerning the validity of certain clinical uses and interpretations of the…

The need for improved accountability has led to more competency-based testing. This provides test makers with the opportunity to have greater impact on the curriculum. Several strategies are suggested for measurement-based instructional improvement. (Author/PN)

Convergent and discriminant validity of the Iowa Social Competency Scale-Preschool form was investigated using the Campbell and Fiske validity model. The methods involved were observer, mother, father and teacher ratings whereas the traits were three test factors of social activator, reassurance, and hypersensitivity. Subjects were 92 pre-school…

Use and validity of externally-produced comprehensive examinations as instruments for promotion and as mechanisms for evaluating curriculum is discussed. Pros and cons of this single route to licensure and effects on student ethics are discussed. A national test bank is proposed as an alternative. (Author/MSE)

This study investigated the effects of specific criteria for marking a test on its reliability and validity. Eight algebra word problems were administered to grade 10 students. The objectivity of scoring criteria improved the reliability of the test, but did not affect its validity. (MNS)

The Confidence in Interviewing Scale, developed to test medical students' interviewing confidence by asking for students' estimations of their ability to handle challenging situations, was tested at the University of Washington. Both reliability and validity were found, but comparison with an external observer's ratings is advocated. (MSE)

The fact that the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is susceptible to coaching does not mean it is a poor test. The abilities measured by it are acquired, apart from test-wiseness. Even though some uses of the scores in admissions may be discriminatory, the test itself is fair, uniform, and judiciously administered. (MSE)

A test for measuring attitudes toward animal life (Fireman Test) was developed. The test was determined to be reliable, valid, free from social-response biases, easy to administer and score, and potentially useful in ascertaining whether changes in attitudes have occurred as a result of some planned intervention. (Author/JN)

Replicating previous findings that the inability to "shift" conceptual attitude on the Weigl is consistent with indices associated with cortical dysfunction, the Weigl is shown to possibly serve as a nonverbal instrument to assess cortical dysfunction where inability to "shift" appears to tap a dysfunction in symbolic rather…

Using children with learning disabilities and children enrolled in regular classrooms, test scores on the Bender-Gestalt and the Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration indicated high and significant correlations for the learning-disabled group and low but significant correlations for regular students. A nine-month mean difference in scores…

Reports principal components and factor analyses of the scores of 60 high school and college students on the 7 measures developed by Feifel to assess fear of death at the conscious, imagery, and nonconscious levels. The results did not support the presence of the three predicted levels. (Author/JAC)

Investigates an objective scoring system in terms of interrater reliabiltiy and test-retest reliability, using drawings from 50 elementary students. Results confirmed the reliability of the scoring system and suggest differences in drawings may be due to a child's mood changes rather than the instability of the instrument. (Author/JAC)

A nonadditive linear model consisting of both Graduate Management Admission Test scores and undergraduate grades adequately portrayed the decision-making process of a Master of Business Administration program admissions officer. The results are discussed in light of the recent criticisms of the use of standardized tests as admissions criteria.…

The American College Testing Program's ACT Proficiency Examination Program credit-by-examination testing model is an effective alternative for determining the advanced standing of students graduated from hospital-based nursing programs who were entering a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at an upper division university. (Author/PN)