The Secondary Level English Proficiency (SLEP) test is a measure of ability in understanding spoken and written English. It is designed for use with students entering grades 7 through 12 whose native language is other than English. Previously offered on a limited basis at test centers established by the Educational Testing Service, the SLEP is now…

This study investigates the responses of teachers in Texas to a state-mandated pupil testing program. Based on literature reviewed, it was expected that effects of the mandated tests would relate to teacher burnout and account for differences in teachers' feelings of control over curricular, teaching, and professional decisions. The responses of…

This discussion focuses on the use of appropriate and equitable tests for the screening and placement of language-minority students. It is proposed that evidence on the impact of testing on Hispanics indicates a relationship between testing practices and the benefits derived or not derived from the students' experience with public education.…

This handbook was designed to help Australian technical, adult, and further education (TAFE) teachers, especially those in vocational education areas, to assess and evaluate students. The guide contains seven chapters, each written so it can stand alone. At the beginning of each chapter is an explanation of what is to follow and a statement of the…

This volume contains the initial draft of a model for assessing students in vocational education programs in Georgia. Addressed in the first section of the draft are some of the components that are believed to be critical in the development of a model for assessing vocational student achievement, including selecting a program for use in developing…

This handbook is designed to assist teachers, administrators, counselors, and others involved in identifying, assessing, and placing limited English proficient (LEP) students in vocational education programs. The handbook consists of four sections. The first section offers a series of suggested approaches and procedures to use in identifying LEP…

This manuscript was written to provide rehabilitation professionals, and vocational evaluation practitioners in particular, with information about learning style assessment instruments. The first section of the guide consists of a literature review that focuses on such aspects of development of the learning styles concept as individual…

The roles of exit examinations (high school exit) and college entrance examinations in four industrialized countries are described. Information was obtained from reviews of educational systems and interviews with small samples of students (at least seven or eight students), parents, and teachers during 1993. All four countries studied, Japan,…

This paper outlines the results of a test validation project for entry-level positions in the tufting areas in a carpet factory. Carpet factory administrators thought that new methods of hiring associates would help improve overall system productivity. A job analysis was conducted through review of job materials and focus groups with employees and…

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), the only accurate and credible indicator of educational performance capable of informing about national trends and state differences in student achievement, serves many different constituencies whose opinions must figure heavily in determining the future directions of the NAEP. To identify,…

Describes a system employed by a middle school to improve performance scores on the Comprehensive Testing of Basic Skills (CTBS), through aggressive attitude changes, to ensure fiscal and other benefits. Notes characteristics of the approach, including realistic goals, student involvement, student responsibility, community involvement, student…

Describes a geography literacy quiz project developed by the Geography Club at California State University (Fresno). Reports that poor quiz results sparked interest in developing programs to ensure geographic literacy. Comments on a program at Dos Palos (California) High School that will require geography proficiency examinations for graduation by…

Discusses issues related to standardized testing and a national art curriculum. Maintains that cultural diversity among students makes valid and fair assessment difficult. Argues that teachers should be trained in the use of authentic assessment methods. (CFR)

Argues that content standards that are aligned with tests are the wrong starting point for systemic school change aimed at improving teaching and learning and that national standards are the wrong vehicle. Policies should attempt to create a system in which community involvement, teacher knowledge, and equalized school capacity are starting points…

A study with 503 applicants to the University of Helsinki (Finland) medical school compared the predictive validity of multiple-choice science tests and a "learning-from-text" test (LFT) designed to measure deep-level text processing. Results indicated the LFT was the best predictor of student academic progress in basic science courses.…