A simple approximation to the conditional distribution of goodness-of-fit statistics for the Rasch model is presented that is used when item difficulties are known. The approximation, which is easily programmed, gives relatively accurate assessments of conditional p-values for tests of 10 or more items. (Author/SLD)

A modification of the Mantel Haenszel (MH) procedure in which the sample is broken in half and subsamples are studied separately was compared with a residual procedure based on item response theory as a way to detect differential item functioning (DIF). Results suggest that the residual analysis achieves higher DIF detection. (SLD)

The importance of item feedback in self-adapted testing was studied by comparing feedback and no feedback conditions for computerized adaptive tests and self-adapted tests taken by 363 college students. Results indicate that item feedback is not necessary to realize score differences between self-adapted and computerized adaptive testing. (SLD)

Four studies of the factorial validity of the Spatial Learning Ability Test (SLAT), involving 431 undergraduates, were summarized to elaborate nomothetic span. These studies support the SLAT as a spatial processing measure. The SLAT, compared to a test with the same item type, was a more pure measure of spatial ability. (SLD)

For measurement of multiple traits, this paper proposes assembling tests based on the targets for the variance functions of the estimators of each of the traits. A linear programming model is presented to computerize the assembly process. An example of test assembly from a two-dimensional item pool is provided. (SLD)

Studied the impact of using five different exposure control algorithms in two sizes of item pool calibrated using the generalized partial credit model. Simulation results show that the a-stratified design, in comparison to a no-exposure control condition, could be used to reduce item exposure and overlap and increase pool use, while degrading…

Compared the nominal and empirical null distributions of the standardized log-likelihood statistic for polytomous items for paper-and-pencil (P&P) and computerized adaptive tests (CATs). Results show that the empirical distribution of the statistic differed from the assumed standard normal distribution for both P&P tests and CATs. Also…

Demonstrates mathematically that if every item in an item pool has an equal possibility to be selected from the pool in a fixed-length computerized adaptive test, the number of overlapping items among an alpha randomly sampled examinees follows the hypergeometric distribution family for alpha greater than or equal to 1. (SLD)

Describes an alternative approach to assessing content validity and content equivalence in terms of item-content structures and content area constructs. Results from applying structural equation modeling to item-response data from two Regents College examinations to verify content constructs suggest the different degrees of inconsistency and bias…

Reviews the literature that focuses on common sources of bias related to the test-generation process, discusses implications of this literature for the business school faculty, and suggests future empirical studies in the areas that pertain to the resolution of these issues. (Author)

Compared is the mass of a dozen eggs with the mass of air in an empty refrigerator. An answer and reasons for the answer are provided. (YP)

A new test critique procedure developed by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) is described. It encourages candidates to identify potentially flawed items during, rather than after, the test. Therefore, candidates retain the opportunity to challenge the test, while the NBEO is able to retain item security. (TJH)

Factors enabling the construction of high-quality tests are clearly defined learning objectives, unambiguous test directions and arrangement, and bias-free statements. (SK)

Polytomous item response theory models and the research that has been conducted to investigate a variety of possible operational procedures for polytomous model-based computerized adaptive testing (CAT) are reviewed, along with studies comparing polytomous CAT systems with competing item response theory models. (SLD)

Suggests methods for developing higher level objective test questions. Taxonomies that define learning outcomes are discussed; and examples for various test types are presented, including multiple correct answers; more complex forms, including classification and multiple true-false; relations and correlates; and interpretive exercises. (LRW)