The controversy over standardized testing of Black students is reviewed: the mismatch of the tests to students' language and culture, the consequences of low test scores to Blacks, proposals to change the existing situation, and the role of the test publishers. (SJL)

The use of adaptive behavior scales in the assessment of minority children was discussed. Positive and negative characteristics of the scales developed by Mercer and Lambert were identified and discussed. Recommendations included cautions for the use of such scales in the evaluation of culturally different minority children. (Author)

The extent and direction of curriculum bias in standardized reading achievement tests were examined. (Author)

Examines public education in Waltham, Massachusetts, over a 50-year period to illustrate the effects of the testing movement on a local American school. Findings support the contention of radical historians and economists that (1) the major objective of public schools has been social control and social sorting out of students and (2) testing and…

The feasibility of measuring responding desirably with attitude-opinion items is discussed, and an index based on 16 such items is presented. Estimates of reliability and validity for this index, and examples of its use as a covariate (control) in attitude research are presented. Similarities and differences from related scales are discussed.…

Presents a critical view of the roles played by test publishers, educational institutions, teachers and counselors, and students in the proliferation, administration and interpretation of standardized group tests. Focuses on issues of construct validity, cultural bias, accountability and the need for protection for test-takers. (DOW)

Presents a study of ways in which the PPVT may be modified to increase its sensitivity to culturally specific factors. The need for separate tests for Blacks and whites is not supported by data; rather more caution indicated in selecting to whom standardized tests should be administered. (Author)

It is unlikely that reading tests written in standard English can measure the verbal ability of nonstandard speakers. Phonological, syntactic, and lexical biases disproportionately place certain groups at a disadvantage and reinforce undesirable attitudes concerning language varieties. This can be remedied only when the society rids itself of…

A court order banned the use of standardized I.Q. tests in California because they disproportionately assigned Black and other minority children to special education programs. Nonbiased assessments of cognitive behavior were implemented. They emphasize processes rather than products of learning. The number of minorities in special education has…

Recent court decisions concerning the demographics of placement of students in various program tracks are reviewed in three articles. Focus is on special cases involving charges of overrepresentation of minorities in programs for the educably mentally retarded. Implications for school psychology and special education are discussed. (TJH)

The content validity of four reading achievement tests was evaluated with respect to third and fourth grade levels of the Pathfinder Allyn and Bacon Reading Program, using 29 third and 34 fourth graders. Instruments evaluated included subtests of the California Achievement Tests, Metropolitan Achievement Tests, Peabody Individual Achievement Test,…

The validity of the Canadian Tests of Basic Skills is examined from the perspective that several of its subtests are highly speeded. Results show that there is very little relationship between the number of items attempted and the number correct and suggest that guessing is involved when more items are attempted. (Author/JAZ)

Far-reaching ramifications for minority children of psychological assessment warrants that it be accurate, fair, and valid. This article addresses: (1) problems inherent in standardized testing; (2) a moratorium on intelligence testing; (3) alternate approaches to testing; and (4) guidelines for assessing ethnic minority groups. (LHW)