Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and American College Program (ACT) scores are the main determinants of college entrance in the USA. It is widely assumed that these tests are predictive of success both during college and in later life, but such views are incorrect. Another widely-held view, held by many educators, is that the SAT and ACT are…

We present an expository account of the development of the theory of binary quadratic forms. Beginning with the formulation and proof of the Two-Square Theorem, we show how the study of forms of the type x[squared] + ny[squared] led to the discovery of the Quadratic Reciprocity Law, and how this theorem, along with the concept of reduction relates…

This technical manual discusses some of the recent developments in the science of graphology and their implications for the science. The manual contains the following sections: (1) Graphology: An Introduction; (2) "CHAPS": Computerized Handwriting Analysis Profiling Systems; (3) HRC Profiles; (4) Reliability; (5) Validity; (6) Historical…

Compares four closed-formula estimators (Burkett, Claudy, Rozeboom, Browne) and the omit-one method for estimating TRS, the true shrunken correlation (not to be confused with TR, the true multiple correlation). Recommendations are based on artificial populations with known TRS. (Author/SV)

Discusses the objectives of the study of Economics, which include anticipating future events and explaining current developments. The article points out that an acquaintance with past economic developments enhances the ability to predict the future. Research into the reasons for economic events often can uncover the multiple causes of a given…

Examines evidence presented for the validity of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) rating scales in "Foreign Language Annals" (1990), "System" (1992), and "Proficiency Guidelines" (1982, 1986). The article argues that this evidence is insufficient to support a claim for validity. (36…

This paper summarizes much of the available information concerning the reliability and validity of the Tests of General Educational Development (GED Tests). The data suggest that the results are sufficiently reliable for continued use and that the validity evidence generally supports the intended uses of the tests. (Author/LMO)

This paper reports on an effort to develop an Internet well-being measure for possible use by government agencies and industry associations that are directly involved with the promulgation of the Internet. Such measures can help officials gauge the social health of those Internet-related industries and institutional sectors, which in turn can…

SAT I: Reasoning Test scores, combined with high school grades, result in more accurate predictions of college success than either measure alone or any other combination of two measures. Overall, there is a strong positive relationship between high school grades and SAT. In 1990, ETS conducted a study of the characteristics of different students…

Exercise stress testing provides information on the aerobic capacity, heart rate, and blood pressure responses to graded exercises of a healthy adult. The reliability of exercise tests as a diagnostic procedure is discussed in relation to sensitivity and specificity and predictive accuracy. (JN)

Discusses the predictive validity of commonly used tests for educational and employment screening and selection in affirmative action. Examines ways the development and use of psychological tests for educational and employment screening may contribute to the search for a politically feasible affirmative action to promote the inclusion in education…

Discussion of electronic learning focuses on outcomes, improving quality of assessment, and evaluation of electronic learning initiatives. Highlights include new directions in assessment, with examples from a variety of fields; blending assessment with learning; multiple roles for learning assessment; criteria for better assessment; and content…

Describes development of computer-based case simulation designed to assess skill in predicting client behavior and conceptual ability, resolution of informational dissonance, and experiential learning. Reviews theoretical basis for simulation. Summarizes preliminary investigation of simulation's reliability and validity. Discusses future research.…

This article focuses on three general areas of research on achievement goal theory, including the definition and role of achievement goals, the role of contextual goals and factors, and the measurement and induction of goals. Issues regarding the definition of achievement goals include the generality of the approach/avoid dimension and the…

Development of the mathematics functional literacy test (MFLT) is described, issues of predictive and content validity are discussed, and implications for educational policy are presented. Ten basic skill areas identified by the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics were used as the basis for the development of the MFLT. (RL)