Test is designed to provide an estimate of the elementary teacher's ability to write behavioral objectives. (Author)

A reliability coefficient for criterion-referenced tests is developed from the assumptions of classical test theory. The coefficient is based on deviations of scores from the criterion score, rather than from the mean. (Author/CK)

An alternative interpretation of Livingston's reliability coefficient (see TM 500 487) is based on the notion of the relation of the size of the reliability coefficient to the range of talent. (Author/CK)

The generalizability theory approach to the estimation of reliability is outlined, and a design is developed in which systematic variations in behavior over differing situations are separated from random fluctuation. Three coefficients of reliability are proposed. (CK)

Correlations among motor, visual, auditory, and language subscales of a primary device, Yellow Brick Road, with subsequent academic achievement on the Comprehensive Tests of Basic Skills were moderate (.35 to .81). Comparisons of third-grade boys and girls on the screening device yielded little difference. Implications for educational screening…

Based on data from classes of 23 instructors in two institutions, it was concluded that specific items on an appraisal-of-instruction inventory probably do not influence students' global appraisals of instruction. If true, this conclusion has important implications for use of such inventories in appraising the effectiveness of college instruction.…

A Monte Carlo design examined how the effects of guessing and item dependence influence test characteristics and student scores. Although validity for cloze variants was high, multiple-choice cloze had significantly lower reliabilities than did true score equivalents. (Author/PN)

Some little-understood facts about standardized test scores and how they are reported and interpreted are explained. In particular, the practice of score equating ensures that different test forms have comparable scoring. This and other practices are designed to enhance the equity of testing. (MSE)

In a study of the reliability of evaluation of laboratory techniques by recent dental graduates versus faculty, wide variance was found in student evaluations. However, faculty evaluations were consistent with each other only 40 percent of the time. Questions are raised about the general system of preclinical evaluation. (MSE)

Examines Jones's and Nisbett's (1971, 1972) hypothesis that people generally attribute the actions of others to stable trait dispositions but see their own behavior as relatively more influenced by specific environmental circumstances. Discusses methodological problems in studies examining this hypothesis, suggesting ways they might be overcome.…

Underlying concepts and current issues in communicative testing are described, and several promising approaches to developing communicative tests are outlined. It is suggested that appropriate testing is likely to have dramatic effects on the format and content of foreign language curricula and on student motivation because of increased relevance.…