Examines the differences between norm-referenced tests (standardized assessments of intelligence, aptitude, achievement, and personality) and criterion-referenced tests. Until school districts improve their potential to develop meaningful criterion-referenced tests, norm-referenced tests will be the major yardstick for measuring student…

Two versions of a criterion-referenced videodisc-based instrument, SHIPS (Self-Help InterPersonal Skills), have been developed for high school students with hearing impairments. Students can choose either American Sign Language or English-based sign versions of assessment items. Field testing found that use of SHIPS enhanced data validity and…

There is presently much disagreement about how students should be evaluated effectively to determine their progress. Some common methods are reviewed, including standardized tests and performance-based evaluation such as portfolios. Continuous experimentation is necessary in the effort to develop better measurement approaches. (SLD)

A discussion of the National Board of Medical Examiners' (NBME) pass-fail grading for Part I and Part II examinations gives background on procedures previously used for setting criterion-based grading standards, gives an overview of research on standard-setting, and outlines NBME plans for determining new standards and incorporating improvements.…

Reviews the Standard Assessment Tasks used to evaluate pupil performance relative to the National Curriculum in England and Wales. Asserts that the system of assigning students to one of 10 levels of attainment is criterion-referenced, whereas the test is norm-referenced. (CFR)

After a period of unbridled enthusiasm about economical prospects, e-learning today is linked with the expectation of increasing expenditures. We implemented an e-learning offering at low cost for the benefit of students and teachers in a course on general pedagogy. This article describes the core ideas in our planning and the empirical findings…

Reviews current research on listening comprehension and development of listening tests and considers four issues in detail: 1) the meaning of context in listening testing; 2) the concept of criterion referenced tests; 3) the notion of specific purposes in testing; and 4) the use of technology in listening tests. Issues for future research are…

This study examined differences in time needed for learning for three types of learning tasks from Bloom's taxonomy: knowledge, comprehension, and application. Seventh and eighth graders (N=88) were given five repeated trials to master three simulated classroom tasks. Large differences were found between tasks in mastery rates, information…

O'Brien's research on Prescriptive Test Theory was replicated, using a survey of basic skills in mathematics taught in Singapore. The feasibility of using Prescriptive Test Theory on a large scale basis was investigated. Instruments used in the study were given in Appendix II (pp. 71-87). (LMO)

Technical advances of the last 15 years in measurement theory and practice are described, notably criterion-referenced testing, item response theory, and computers and testing. Several remaining problems concerning the development and validation of credentialing examinations are also considered. (Author/LMO)

A norm-referenced achievement test, in combination with supplementary items, can be used to produce norm-referenced data as well as objective-referenced data. The experiences of the Palm Beach County (Florida) school district in developing and using such a test are described. (EGS)

Provides guidelines for teachers writing machine-scored examinations. Explains the use of item analysis (discrimination index) to single test items that should be improved or eliminated. Discusses validity and reliability of classroom achievement tests in contrast to norm-referenced examinations. (JHZ)

The quality and equality of American education are reexamined and the misuse of tests and the public's perception of them are discussed. It is suggested that new research efforts in testing must be supported. Congressional chartering of the National Academy of Education is proposed. (Author/MLW)

Discussion of instructor's methods compared with those intended by the instructional designer focuses on a study of undergraduate engineering students that was designed to investigate whether instructor delivery of the program as recommended regarding homework would yield higher student achievement. Treatments for the experimental and control…

This study follows up a study examining use of self-monitoring to remediate social skills of a young man with Down syndrome in supported competitive employment. The study demonstrates the efficacy of the follow-along component of supported employment and the use of a criterion-referenced assessment and treatment package to retrain technical job…