Describes the steps for estimating a population mean from three test items from a test that has been calibrated. Because the Rasch model allows for a direct transformation between raw scores and logit measures, if a population mean in logits is known relative to a set of item calibrations, the population mean in raw score units can be determined.…

The Satisfaction with Appearance Scale (SWAP) was administered to 165 burn victims. SWAP showed a high level of internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha, r(a)=0.87); an 84-subject retest measured reliability (r(tt)=0.59). SWAP is both a reliable and valid measure of body image for a burn-injured population. (Author/MAK)

Describes how multilevel logistic regression can be used to assess the consistency of an individuals' response pattern with an item response theory measurement model. Outlines the advantages of this proposed modeling approach over traditional techniques, specifically that the multilevel modeling approach allows explanatory variables to be entered…

Used confirmatory factor analysis with 2 samples (366 employees and 2,301 nurses) to compare the original and revised versions of the scales developed by J. Meyer and N. Allen (1991) to measure three- component commitment. Results show that substantially improved construct measurement is possible with relatively modest scale revisions. (SLD)

Compares four methods that map outlier statistics to a familiarity probability scale (a "P" value). Explored these methods in the context of computerized adaptive test data from a 1995 nationally administered computerized examination for professionals in the medical industry. (SLD)

Proposed person-fit statistics that are designed for use in a computerized adaptive test (CAT) and derived critical values for these statistics using cumulative sum (CUSUM) procedures so that item-score patterns can be classified as fitting or misfitting. Compared nominal Type I errors with empirical Type I errors through simulation studies. (SLD)

Proposes methods appropriate for solving multiple objective test assembly problems. Discusses the impact of the method on the optimality of the solution and gives an empirical example of a test assembly problem for a two-dimensional mathematics item pool. (SLD)

Using "careerhub.org" as a model, presents challenges and ethical issues in designing a website and developing career assessment instruments. Provides preliminary data on the psychometric qualities of the instruments and results of a pilot study of the site. (SK)

Describes a structural equation model that permits estimation of the reliability index and coefficient of a composite index for congeneric measures. The method is also helpful in exploring the factorial structure of an item set, and its use in scale reliability estimation and development is illustrated. (SLD)

Describes relationships among 20 polytomous item response theory (IRT) models (parametric and nonparametric) and 8 measurement properties relevant to polytomous IRT. Provides three tables to assist in the choice of an appropriate model and demonstrates the use of the models in test construction. (SLD)

Addresses the potential benefits of using sound in computerized assessments. Describes some current computer uses of the audio channel of communication and outlines a proposed audio computer-based testing framework. Provides some examples of operational and experimental audio tests and reviews some research cautions and recommendations. (SLD)

Studied the construct validity of scores on the Adolescent Anger Rating Scale (AARS) developed to measure instrumental and reactive anger. Results for 792 12- to 19-year-olds indicate that AARS scores are internally consistent and stable when anger subtypes are measured. (SLD)

This report describes results from field-testing of POWERSOURCE[C] formative assessment alongside professional development and instructional resources. The researchers at the National Center for Research, on Evaluation, Standards, & Student Testing (CRESST) employed a randomized, controlled design to address the following question: Does the…

The main purpose of this research is 1) to establish a framework for the test development and the constructs of writing performance test, 2) to implement a developed writing performance assessment, and 3) to examine the degree of reliability and validity of the assessment tasks and rating scales. Construct-based processing approach to testing…

This paper discusses the compilation of an instrument in order to investigate pre-service early childhood teachers' views and intentions about integrating and using computers in early childhood settings. For the purpose of this study a questionnaire was compiled and administered to 258 pre-service early childhood teachers (PECTs), in Greece. A…