Angoff's method for identifying possible biased test items was applied to four computer-generated hypothetical tests, two of which contained no biased items and two of which contained a few biased items. The tests were generated to match specifications of a latent trait model. Angoff's method compared item difficulty estimates for two different…

The validity of current standardized competency tests for writing is in doubt as is the need for such testing at all. Some tests, especially those requiring little writing, may not be testing what they purport to test (content validity). Instructional validity (testing what has actually been taught) raises the issue that what is being tested is…

This paper reports two studies which compared scores obtained on the Slosson Intelligence Test (SIT) and Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT) and investigated the hypothesis that the representational level of the stimulus items in the PPVT is inappropriate for preschool children regardless of socioeconomic background. In the first study, the…

The traditional role of the personnel administrator is discussed, and the need for a new type of personnel worker who will be held accountable in working with black youth is pointed out. Traditionally, the role of the personnel administrator has been determined and defined by the chief school officer. They have been the officers of law and order…

Ability tests in use today and the educational programs of the schools are examined from a Black perspective. It is stated that it is incumbent upon educators to develop appropriate learning experiences in the classroom which relate to the Black child's background experiences. The following issues are raised: (1) I.Q. tests (predictor variables)…

The history of standardized testing is examined, and various problems with test content, testing processes, and statistical applications of test results are discussed. (MJB)

Two procedures for Rasch, sample-free item calibration are reviewed and compared for accuracy. The theoretically ideal "conditional" procedure is impractical for more than fifteen items. The more practical but biased "unconditional" procedure is discussed in detail. (Author/JKS)

Students Against Testing, a Brown University student group that seeks to either abolish or reform the Scholastic Aptitude Test is discussed. As a result of a letter-writing drive, students on at least 50 campuses are seriously considering starting similar efforts next fall. (MLW)

Differences in test scores can be attributed to various causes, including genuine knowledge differences, test-taking abilities, and irrelevant and biased questions. The Golden Rule reform is a safeguard to ensure that standardized tests measure relevant knowledge differences between test takers and not irrelevant, culturally specific factors. (JAZ)

Discusses issues in reading assessment, including the concern that tests can not measure the reading process. Concludes that tests will never be more than useful indicators; calls for more research and examination of existing and new types of reading comprehension tests. (MM)

The internal consistency of the Goodenough-Harris Draw-A-Person Test was examined using 150 children, aged 5-8. The 72-item full scales showed good internal consistency at all ages, with no sex differences. Administration of a 42-item short form resulted in sex effects and differential internal consistency. (Author/GDC)

A brief report on status of state mandates for teacher testing considers: (1) the number of states that have or are establishing testing programs; (2) the type of competency testing being conducted by each state; (3) whether currently employed teachers should be tested; (4) whether such tests discriminate against minority group members; and (5)…

Revised Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test was administered to 410 Australian children to determine if significant cultural differences were apparent on Form L or M of revised test. Data indicated that there were differences that, while statistically nonsignificant, could lead to inaccurate clinical classification if all American items and norms were…

Results of a study on 188 elementary age children from three racial ethnic and two socioeconomic groups found that Draw A Person (DAP) Test scores correlated significantly and consistently with five of the six major achievement areas supporting the use of the DAP with children of diverse backgrounds. (DB)

McCauley and Colberg described a theory of transportability and provided data to demonstrate the feasibility of their approach. It is argued that the transportability notion resembles earlier cross cultural work and does not add new insights into cross cultural comparison. Their statistical checks do not preclude the possibility of bias.…