Notes that in 1985, California eighth-grade students took the first statewide history-social science test which emphasized critical thinking skills. Contends that these skills are teachable and should be a priority in social studies. Describes three approaches to critical thinking skills assessment and provides three examples. Concludes with…

Discusses how information referenced testing using Modified Confidence Weighted-Admissible Probability Measurement (MCW-APM) test scoring procedures in conjunction with diagnostic and placement multiple-choice examinations can be used to enhance the effectiveness of academic support services for special action admissions such as student athletes…

Reports efforts and results associated with the development and validation of a test of graphing skills for grade seven through twelve science students. Concludes that the Test of Graphing in Science (TOGS) is a valid and reliable instrument. Also discusses TOGS value to the teacher and educational researcher. (ML)

Presents microcomputer-based test scoring procedure with focus on measuring student information, partial information, and misinformation based on an information theoretic approach model of knowledge assessment. Admissible probability measurement scoring procedure described removes the constraint of forced choices, where guesses are based on…

Item banking offers psychometric efficiency and user flexibility when compared with standardized testing. This article discusses the theories, procedures, and potential of item banks for improving educational measurement. (BS)

Some negative feelings about tests may be the result of not understanding what tests do, what their limitations are, and how they are scored. Classroom, standardized, achievement, and criterion-referenced tests are discussed. Tips for helping children develop a realistic attitude toward tests and good work habits are given. (MT)

Ninety-seven fifth graders took a multiple-choice test with factual and guess questions after reading a 900-word text. The effects of immediate informative feedback, delayed feedback, or no feedback on their performance on a delayed retention tests were analyzed. Results suggested that awareness of initial errors was helpful. (Author/BS)

A group of school districts in Western Oregon has developed a goal-based improvement model that provides teachers and administrators with a common information base. (Author)

Responding to doubts about the validity of test results that showed the Pittsburgh School District's school improvement project to be highly successful, the district validated its results by administering a different test to a representative sample of students in secure conditions. (MCG)

Seeing intelligence as neither strongly hereditary nor necessarily stable over time, and accepting the notion that it is a significant determinant of future occupational status, liberal psychologists and educators rely on the intervention of social institutions, primarily the school. The liberal view toward testing and intelligence is discussed.…

Examines reasons for community colleges' return to mandatory testing and placement in courses/programs where students have a reasonable expectation of success. Looks at the use and success of other retention strategies, including orientation programs, tutors, and integrated support services. (DMM)

An outcome of the excellence movement has been an increase in state control of education, especially through state-mandated testing, as testing has become the preferred means of trying to effect change in education following the popularity of accountability and minimum competency testing. Suggestions for using tests prudently are listed. (DCS)

The purpose of the study was to describe (1) ways that adults prepare for the General Educational Development Test, (2) test performance of population subgroups, and (3) test candidates' employment and educational outcomes 18 months later. Significant differences were found in a number of areas, and variables related to test performance were…

The first group response on the state of American education from the educational community is reported. These educators agree that debate is healthy, but are concerned that the nation prepare for long-term solutions rather than a "quick fix." (MD)

Very few studies of variations in grouping students for instructional purposes have concerned themselves with the legal aspects of the practice of separating children into classes. The legal problems facing those who make decisions related to sorting children for purposes of instruction were considered. (Author/RK)