Few empirical investigations have evaluated learning disabilities (LD) identification methods based on a pattern of cognitive strengths and weaknesses (PSW). This study investigated the reliability of LD classification decisions of the concordance/discordance method (C/DM) across different psychoeducational assessment batteries. C/DM criteria were…

Recently, educational researchers and practitioners have turned to value-added models to evaluate teacher performance. Although value-added estimates depend on the assessment used to measure student achievement, the importance of outcome selection has received scant attention in the literature. Using data from a large, urban school district, I…

Hillsborough (Florida) County Public Schools used a systematic process to choose a standardized test that matched its curriculum. (Author)

Global achievement tests are best used for broad purposes (program evaluation) or purposes such as screening which will be followed up with more precise instruments. (SB)

Evaluated number of format and direction changes across tests and grade levels of major elementary standardized reading achievement tests. Number of format changes varies from one change every 1.2 minutes on Metropolitan Achievement Test Level E1 to one change every 21.3 minutes on P1 level of Stanford Achievement Test. (Author)

Forty-six achievement tests were compared for content validity, criterion-related validity, reliability, and norms. Results show that more popular tests provide the user with technical data in the critical areas examined, although the information provided may be incomplete. (Author/MT)

Describes a study conducted at the University of Tennessee at Marin to find a test more suitable than the Nelson-Denny Reading Test (NDRT) to accurately measure reading improvement in developmental classes. Found no support for replacing the NDRT with the Descriptive Tests of Language Skills or the Comparative Guidance and Placement Program. (DMM)

The paper discusses some problems in using achievement tests with hearing impaired students and offers some general suggestions for school testing programs. (PHR)

Proposes a system of achievement testing for all U.S. students rather than just those who are college bound. Criticizes present achievement testing as a patchwork system that fails to provide parents with information about how much their children are learning in comparison to others. Provides a sampling of national achievement test questions from…

Details how England is reworking its secondary school examination system, replacing the GCE and the CSE with one examination system. (CRH)

This study examined the efficiency of over 5,000 reading and mathematics screening tests specifically developed for assigning levels of the Stanford Achievement Test, 8th edition (SAT-8), to deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Analysis found the screening tests more effective in assigning student levels for some SAT-8 subtests than for others. (DB)

Lists comprehensive guides, catalogs, and printed and online databases for use by individuals who do not have an extensive background in tests and measurement. The guides provide lists of tests for specific subject areas, grade levels, and purposes. The article includes availability information for resources. (SM)

A set of guidelines for evaluating criterion-referenced tests is presented. Additionally, 11 sets of extant criterion-referenced tests are evaluated using these guidelines. (JKS)

The strengths and weaknesses of five typical machine-scored test formats are discussed, specific recommendations for format selection are made, and reasons for the importance of format are examined. (MSE)

A response to the Minister of Education's announcement of provincewide testing in English and mathematics and a look at the tests thay may be used. (CRH)