TAILOR, a computer program which implements an approach to tailored testing, was examined by Monte Carlo methods. The evaluation showed the procedure to be highly reliable and capable of reducing the required number of tests items by about one half. (Author/JKS)

A rationale and practical guide to the psychological evaluation of deaf-blind children is provided. Few adequate tests exist. The Callier Azusa Scale, designed specifically for this population, is recommended as the best instrument. Some items on the Learning Accomplishment Profile are appropriate. Operationally stated skill checklists are also…

As more states adopt minimum competency testing (MCT) programs, MCT is becoming the subject of much debate among educators and in the courts. MCT has been attacked by those who claim it discriminates against Blacks and non-English-speaking minorities. Also raised in the MCT debate is the question of educational malpractice. (RLV)

Examination of the history of the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) program and the College Board can inform the current debate about testing by shedding light on admission and access issues that have been addressed by the program over the years. It has strived to balance consistency with the flexibility to adapt testing to new knowledge about…

Some alternative criteria for item selection in adaptive testing are proposed that take into account uncertainty in the ability estimates. A simulation study shows that the likelihood weighted information criterion is a good alternative to the maximum information criterion. Another good alternative uses a Bayesian expected a posteriori estimator.…

An item selection procedure for computerized adaptive testing based on average global information is proposed. Results from simulation studies comparing the approach with the usual maximum item information item selection indicate that the new method leads to improvement in terms of bias and mean squared error reduction under many circumstances.…

Mixed integer linear programing models for customizing two-stage tests are presented. Model constraints are imposed with respect to test composition, administration time, inter-item dependencies, and other practical considerations. The models can be modified for use in the construction of multistage tests. (Author/TJH)

The development, preliminary assessment, and uses of two paper-and-pencil measures of dyadic perspective-taking are described. A literature review revealed 23 perspective-taking type items each for the Self Dyadic Perspective-Taking Scale and the Other Dyadic Perspective-Taking Scale. Results for 277 college students indicate that the tests are…

Conceptual issues arising from the use of minimum competency tests with mildly handicapped and at-risk students are examined, especially in regard to states with a policy of local option. Considered are possible bias in modifying testing procedures, reciprocity among districts, and the unknown consequences of specific modifications. (Author/DB)

As part of a neuropsychological assessment, 95 adult patients completed either standard or computerized versions of the Category Test. Subjects who completed the computerized version exhibited more errors than those who completed the standard version, suggesting that it may be more difficult. (SLD)

Effects on computerized adaptive test score of using a paper-and-pencil (P&P) calibration to select items and estimate scores were compared with effects of using computer calibration. Results with 2,999 Navy recruits support the use of item parameters calibrated from either P&P or computer administrations. (SLD)

This article defines test bias and reviews research methods most aptly applied postpublication to educational and psychological tests. Best methods for estimating bias in criterion-related or predictive validity and determining bias in construct validity across groups are explained. (Author/JDD)

National Assessment of Educational Progress writing sample essays from 1988 and 1990 (495 and 599 essays) were subjected to computerized grading and human ratings. Cross-validation suggests that computer scoring is superior to a two-judge panel, a finding encouraging for large programs of essay evaluation. (SLD)

The results of survey that found out how many of 269 engineering schools deliver accredited programs via television are discussed. Information about the technologies employed, the use of tutors in conjunction with videotaped courses, and logistics of exam monitoring and exam security is provided. A list of colleges offering televised engineering…

Investigated model for reducing time for administration of Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) using real-data simulation of Bayesian scaling in computerized adaptive administration. Findings from simulation study using data from 127 undergraduates are strongly supportive of use of Bayesian scaled computerized adaptive administration of MBTI.…