INTERTAIL, the computer program which implements an approach to tailored testing outlined by Cliff (1975), was examined with errorless data in several Monte Carlo studies. Three replications of each cell of a 3 x 3 table with 10, 20 and 40 items and persons were analyzed. Mean rank correlation coefficients between the true order, specified by…

The National Assessment of Educational Progress uses a variety of test items and scoring techniques in measuring the writing achievement of three age groups--nine, thirteen, and seventeen year olds. This document discusses the holistic scoring of essays, including mechanical correctness and grammatical usage; the primary-trait method of scoring,…

The predictive ability of a mathematics test organized into a branching test for computer-interactive administration was investigated. Twenty-five blocks of five items were used in the branching. Each testee took 25 items, with each subsequent block being determined by prior performance. Results supported the branching technique. (JKS)

The effects of performance-enhancing modifications of testing procedures of a Piagetian-type instrument were investigated for samples of elementary school-aged White, Black, and Mexican-American children. Results are discussed in terms of test validity. (JKS)

Four techniques for assessing differences between least-squares estimators of regression coefficients from group and individual-level data are summarized. The utility and suitability of all four approaches are discussed when (1) data are grouped by a nominal characteristic; (2) there are multiple regressors; or (3) individual-level data cannot be…

The effects of providing immediate feedback on an item-by-item basis to testees were investigated on several samples of undergraduates who were administered either adaptive or conventional tests. Results generally indicated that knowledge of results improved test performance. (JKS)

Reviews current approaches to testing oral competence at 16plus and suggests some less artificial alternatives. (AA)

Discusses and presents a summary outline of state activity in minimum competency testing as of March 15, 1978. (IRT)

The development of computer-prepared random final examinations for an undergraduate remedial mathematics course is outlined. Two sample examinations prepared by computer are given. (MN)

The paper reviews WISC/WISC-R comparison studies which have been conducted with a wide variety of samples. Caution is advised in the interpretation of a WISC/WISC-R difference, as a discrepancy of one SD may not be meaningful. (Author)

Reports correlations between the High School Personality Questionnaire and various indices of school achievement and compares the validities with prior studies. Uses three achievement scores: self-reported high-school grades, parent-reported high-school grades several years after the testing, and college grades several years after the testing. The…

Marking is described as part of the central examinations for secondary general education in the Netherlands. These consist of two components: an external, and an internal school-based examination. Pedadogical implications of general school assessment practice, plus recent trends, are discussed. (BS)

This article discusses recent changes in formative and summative assessment in Scotland. The Examination system is being extended to cover all aspects of schooling for all pupils. There are extensive changes in the system, now called Scottish National Diploma, for those pursuing business, technical, or vocational courses. (LMO)

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…

Reports on the first phases of an American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages project to develop a computerized adaptive test of reading proficiency. The theoretical multidimensionality of the construct is clarified, and its implications for test development, item calibration, and validation procedures are discussed. (Author/SED)