Considers issues surrounding the use of differentiated examinations. Discusses how differentiation may be provided, the wording of questions, and how marks should be given. Highlights some pitfalls of using this approach. Concludes that, although differentiated examinations are possible, they will not always meet the needs of the end range of test…

Investigated the age at which children first acquire understanding of others' feelings and of ways in which they can affect others' feelings. Also considered the relation of children's development in this domain to their understanding of the nonsocial world. Findings indicated that it was possible to predict the age at which children would pass…

Develops an 18-category Explanation Appraisal Schedule (EAS) for the analysis of teaching effectiveness in the expository mode. Describes the validation procedures with the worksheet of the EAS. Reports that the EAS provides a discriminating instrument for use in analyzing teaching effectiveness. (Author/YP)

Considers the relationship between testing and curriculum by examining the testing literature. Argues that a test that is both valid and useful is not possible due to the absence of a certifiable standard in most curriculum areas. Suggests that validation could be better defined through a consideration of various factors of education. (KO)

A polychotomous nominal response model-based computerized adaptive test (CAT) was simulated using data from 1,093 University of Texas students. The ability estimation of this model and its overall performance were compared with those of a dichotomous three-parameter logistic model-based CAT. Advantages and drawbacks of nominal response CAT are…

Assessed were second grade students to determine whether their beliefs about causes of success in mathematics were related to their personal goals in mathematics. One class that experienced mathematics instruction consistent with a constructivist view rated higher than traditional classes on Task Orientation, attempting to gain understanding.…

Three major pragmatic issues in computerized testing are addressed: (1) encouraging teacher use; (2) reporting of information; and (3) test construction. Reference is made to four related articles. Additional areas for research include reporting of test information; item bank standards; validity; and rules for stopping in computerized testing.…

Examines the effects of corporate mergers in the publishing industry on the publishing of textbooks and standardized tests. Concludes that restructuring, acquisitions, and mergers have an intrusive effect on established practices of academic publishing and may severely limit the access of scholars to the academic marketplace. (FMW)

Primary caregivers to Alzheimer disease patients (N=60) twice completed Caregiving Hassles Scale and reported on their well-being. Scale provided reliable and psychometrically sound instrument for assessing hassles associated with assistance in basic and instrumental activities of daily living, care-recipient cognitive status and behavior, and…

Describes the development of the art certification examination which was designed for the Florida State Initial Teacher Certification Test. Discusses problems of subjectivity, content, and question format. Suggests criteria which can guide the development of viable college art education programs that can adequately prepare teachers in the areas of…

A study developed a set of student self-ratings, teacher ratings, and performance test assessment instruments designed to measure the generalizable communication skills of students in secondary vocational programs. Tests were administered to a random sample of 150 students at 3 area vocational centers, with a retest of 75 students. (Author/JOW)

MicroCAT version 3.0--an integrated test development, administration, and analysis system--is reviewed in this first article of a series on testing software. A framework for comparing testing software is presented. The strength of this package lies in the development, banking, and administration of items composed of text and graphics. (SLD)

This paper develops a multiplicative model as a means of combining ratings of criticality and frequency of various activities involved in job analyses. The model incorporates adjustments to ensure that effective weights of criticality and frequency are appropriate. An example of the model's use is presented. (TJH)

Explores how computers can assist teachers in developing tests. Describes "TESTWORKS," a computerized test generator. Lists 12 other test-generating programs available for Apple II computers, detailing data-entry features, hard copy features, and program features that permit interactive testing. Discusses using word processing or…

A methodology for developing multiple-choice critical thinking tests is described, which attempts to overcome certain problems of validity and fairness associated with such tests. It is concluded that direct evidence on test validity should be gathered using verbal reports of students' thinking on trial items. (TJH)