Further discussion of declining SAT scores is presented. (MM)

The Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children is examined with particular attention to evolution of current psychometric concepts and methods, as well as the historical sources of popular misconceptions. The K-ABC reveals sophisticated applications of current test construction methodology but requires knowledgeable examiners. (Author/CL)

Tables describe the characteristics of 16 aptitude/achievement and 27 interest/value measures. Relationship between career assessment and vocational education historically and in terms of federal legislation is addressed. (SK)

Shifting from aptitude to achievement tests for college admissions is discussed with implications toward the positive educational effects of rewarding diligence and serious study in high school. The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is compared with other achievement tests reqarding effects on schools and equal opportunity. (CM)

The need for accuracy in testing, the unintended social consequences, and the contrast of achievement and aptitude tests are discussed in response to the views of Jencks and Crouse (see TM 506 983) regarding whether to change the function of the SAT. (CM)

Reviews the controversy over the difference between using aptitude test scores or achievement test scores as a basis for selecting college entrants. Concludes that emphasizing the Scholastic Aptitude Test fails to reward students who work hard in secondary school. (WD)

Responds to article by Ross investigating whether psychologists possess psychometric knowledge necessary to evaluate discrepancies within individual's test performace with sufficient accuracy to ensure reliable decision making. Presents arguments within context of guidelines for test interpretation and estimation of error. Offers suggestions for…

Reacts to response of Barnett and Macmann concerning Ross's investigation into whether psychologists possess psychometric knowledge necessary to evaluate discrepancies within individual's test performace with sufficient accuracy to ensure reliable decision making. Contends that ways need to be found to implement and evaluate promising…

Tests producing results that are used to make important decisions about students, schools, and curricula should not be developed locally by teachers. Although district educators at all levels need to become familiar with measurement nuances, the development of high stakes tests is best left to measurement professionals. Includes four references.…

Because the skills tested on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) are higher order skills than those of basic literacy, teaching basic literacy will not necessarily improve SAT scores. The National Assessment of Educational Progress, which does test literacy, indicates that students do possess basic literacy skills. (IRT) Aspect of National…

Offers strategies for improving student scores on the Scholastic Aptitude Test. Covers three areas: improvement in instructional quality in high schools; analysis and refinement of opportunities for students to demonstrate and practice test-taking skills; and enhancement of understanding and support among parents, community, and staff. (PGD)

The authors discuss the major points of Jackson's reply to their criticisms of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), and reassert their claim that, if the SAT is judged on the basis of its predictive validity, it should be dropped as a college admission requirement. (SK)

The thesis of this paper is that social class profoundly affects performance on IQ, aptitude, and specific school learning abilities and disabilities tests, and that a fair, quantitative measurement of socioeconomically depressed students is only possible with local or comparable norms. The controversial issue in such testing of students is the…

It is argued that the close relationship between learning and testing is best exemplified in achievement tests, which are designed both to reinforce learning and to provide feedback about the effectiveness of teaching. Of the four types of achievement tests (placement, formative, diagnostic, and summative), two (formative and diagnostic) are…

The traditional use of scores derived from standardized, norm-referenced achievement tests is examined as to its role in a local school system's efforts to monitor itself and to examine how well individual students, schools and the overall system are functioning. Several questions regarding the legitimacy of well-established practices involving…