From a survey of Arizona teachers/administrators and observations in two elementary schools concerning the role of external testing, a typology of teacher orientation toward preparing students to take high-stakes achievement tests is identified. Eight categories of teachers' approaches are contrasted with meanings of test preparation held by other…

This study investigated the technical adequacy of 7 objective indexes of writing quality in monitoring the progress of 36 middle school students with mild disabilities over a 6-month period. Three indexes (such as "percent of legible words") were moderately correlated with holistic ratings but were not sufficiently stable over time. (Author/JDD)

This study used judgmental and statistical procedures to evaluate the items in a statewide, 78-item, multiple-choice test of science knowledge. Differences in outcomes for these procedures are discussed. Authors conclude that both procedures should be used in test construction. (PR)

To develop Australian norms for the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (Survey Form), data for 600 children aged 5-9 years were assessed. Interviews were conducted with 589 of the subjects' parents. Consistently lower scores by Australian children indicated that American norms require adjustment for Australian use. Recommended adjustments are…

Raven's Progressive Matrices and the Simpson Adult Vocabulary Scale were administered to 400 Australian hospitalized adults without psychiatric or neurological impairment in 4 age groups from 30 to 69 years. Compared to pre-1964 data, the subjects did not show gains in intelligence quotient as did younger age groups. (SLD)

This study is a partial replication of a set of studies conducted to investigate the effects of unequal status on speech variation. It was found that, in some respects, first- and second-language variation may be quantitatively different. (52 references) (JL)

Describes a microcomputer-based program of assessment and instruction in language arts incorporated into the developmental curriculum at four colleges. Discusses the instructional value of assessment. Describes three different implementation modes. Finds a climate for experimentation, a program champion, an implementation team, and organizational…

Considers the functions of teaching guides, and suggests why their evaluation is a worthwhile activity. The evaluation process is examined, and a set of model criteria for a detailed evaluation are provided. (14 references) (JL)

Compares primary school pupils who have repeated two years of schooling with a normally progressing control group. Uses Harter's scales to measure self-concept and self-worth. Finds no difference between repeating and nonrepeating children in self-worth or between girls and boys. Finds no evidence of systematic loss of self-worth. (NL)

Uses the National Council for Geographic Education Competency-Based Geography Test to measure the 1987 level of geographic ability of more than 3,000 students enrolled in introductory classes at 18 Indiana institutions of higher education. Study provides a baseline level of geographic knowledge for future comparisons. Measures impact of gender,…

Santa Fe Community College (Florida) has used computerized adaptive testing with students placed in developmental reading, writing, and mathematics courses. Computerized adaptive testing utilizes the capabilities of microcomputers to adapt examinations to the abilities of individual students, may be less threatening to students, is preferred by…

The relative math expectancies (RMEs) and math-performance attributions of 122 male and 177 female eighth graders were examined in relation to an Expectancy-Attribution process model of performance. Results from the Mathematics Attribution Scale and a RME rating scale support the model and indicate gender differences in cognitive patterns in…

This article discusses empowering thinking skills such as brainstorming, problem solving, analysis; comparison/contrast and how to cultivate these abilities in gifted children. Examples are given of ways for teachers to model thinking skills for students. The response of a student to the ideas of the article is included. (PB)

Describes the results of three surveys that were conducted in 1982 and 1986 to determine the availability and use of microcomputers in public schools in Texas and Pennsylvania. Library use of microcomputers is examined as well as classroom use, trends are examined, and hypotheses for a planned future study are given. (17 references) (LRW)

Analyzed and validated revised versions of the 2000 Word Level and the University Word Level of Nation's Vocabulary Levels Test, which can be administered for course planning and placement in language programs. Japanese high school and university students (n=496) completed four forms of the 2000 Word Test, and 464 completed four forms of the…