This analysis of the role of testing in educational programs and services maintains that the connection between tests and instruction is best made integrally through an understanding of the design of learning tasks rather than through linkage. The context for, use of, and limitations of task structures are described. (Author/CM)

Guidelines for the selection and use of commercially prepared informal reading inventories (IRIs) with deaf students are offered. Modifications for deaf students pertain to: selection of the passage to begin testing, the criteria for oral and silent reading levels, and procedures for estimating students' readng potential levels. (SW)

An essential element in establishing educational equity is the use of educational testing and standardized norm-referenced tests, in particular, to identify and analyze problems in school effectiveness. The performance of children from low-income families is the best indicator of school response to minimum skills needs. (CM)

The assistance of professionals in measurement is called for to help schools deal with controversial issues in standardized testing by increasing public understanding of test uses and limitations. Schools' representation on the National Council on Measurement in Education (NCME) and the dissemination of NCME-published information to schools is…

The implicit responsibility of colleges and universities to use tests to match the capabilities of the diversity of students with the requirements of programs of study is examined. Test uses in admissions and counseling are shown to be an important means of predicting success. (Author/CM)

Most admissions officers do not use test scores as the sole criterion for denying a student admission. However, sometimes test scores are the only redeeming feature in a student's credentials. Test use in regular and provisional admissions is discussed. (Author/CM)

The need to face the fact that minority groups are particularly vulnerable to testing, or perceive themselves to be, is argued. It is suggested that tests be used--along with other information--for student placement, advisement, and counseling. A program to improve test-taking skills is briefly described. (Author/CM)

Many factors can influence teachers' attitudes toward tests and some of those factors have nothing to do with the test's contents or subject matter. When the purposes and uses of tests results are not explained, teacher attitudes will be affected negatively. Testing on subject matter should be used in teacher certification and evaluation.…

Three students' concerns about testing range from the conditions under which tests are taken to what tests actually measure, to the personal sacrifices high school students must make to take nationally administered examinations. (Author/CM)

Guidance counselors are responsible for helping teachers, students, and parents understand as much as possible about the school's testing program and each student's performance. The purposes and uses of tests are important in the context of the student's future. (Author/CM)

The factorial structure of the California Achievement Test subtests appears to consist of only one common factor in each grade. This study indicates that there is considerable overlap among the subtests and that there is minimal support for the use of subtest scores as measures of independent constructs. (Author/PN)

Reviews four uses for norm-referenced tests of reading comprehension. Concludes that three of the uses are actually misuses and that the only appropriate use is for predicting future student performance. (FL)

Asserts that failure to consider carefully the purposes and uses to which standardized tests are put can place barriers in the way of equal educational opportunities for minority students. Proposes six precautions for ensuring that standardized tests can be used without endangering equal educational opportunities. (PGD)

Three important issues related to the testing debate, particularly in the context of college and professional school admissions, are reviewed and evaluated. (Author/AL)

Argues that giving students a reading test that is above or below their levels of achievement will yield inaccurate information. (FL)