This guide explains the concept of out-of-level testing and suggests a formula for estimating the occurrence of floor effects and ceiling effects, within the context of models for evaluating Elementary Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Title I programs. An analogy explains floor and ceiling effects as if test items are stored in different levels in a…

This publication is designed to help vocational evaluators wisely select and use tests within the context of the referral questions and the individualized evaluation plan. The first of two parts contains information on why tests are used in evaluation, problems with tests, and how to select tests. Part 2 contains a review of specific tests that…

This paper reviews the research in the area of achievement tests. The findings indicate: (1) there is little evidence that educational decision makers use the large amount of test data collected; (2) a larger number of tests are being required of students for personal certification; (3) reasons for the lack of application of test results include…

The Rasch model was used to compare the grade equivalent scores which students of equal ability would have obtained, had they taken different levels of the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS). Raw scores on items common to levels 9-14 of the ITBS (vocabulary subtest) were obtained from 6,000 students in Dallas, Texas. Rasch scales were used to…

This paper supports the hypothesis that picture vocabulary tests should not be used as interchangeable measures of intelligence for complex, lengthy intelligence tests (WISC and Stanford-Binet). In picture vocabulary tests assessing receptive functions (input), the child recognizes a word by pointing to or stating the number standing for an…

Single-score measures of intelligence are inadequate to predict performance on a programed instruction format. Guilford's model of the intellect accounts for three dimensions relevant to learner abilities. The content dimension refers to the kind of material involved, the product dimension to the kind of output required, and the process dimension…

This study surveyed 53 master's level students in two tests and measurement classes to determine if and in what fashion they had been victimized by testing and evaluation. The purpose of this activity was to acquire personal data which could be used to both dramatize and formulate criteria for the construction of classroom tests. A majority of…

This study correlates the relationship between varying methods in student evaluation and its effect on student achievement and attrition. The sample studied consisted of 230 students enrolled in three separate semesters of General Biology 11A at Pasadena City College in 1972, 1973, and 1974. The earlier students were given longer exams over three…

This unit of work is designed to provide the participant with an overview of the purposes, methods, and techniques for testing English as a Second Language (ESL) and practical classroom applications. Given the series of learning alternatives on testing that are presented in this module, the participant should be able to: (a) demonstrate knowledge…

Symposium topics and speakers include "Choosing Needs for Needs Assessment" (Stephen P. Klein); "Selecting Tests to Assess the Needs" (Ralph Hoepfner); "Making Better Decisions on Assessed Needs: Differentiated School Norms" (Paul A. Bradley and Dale Woolley); and "Allocating Resources by Subject Area"…

AN INVESTIGATION WAS MADE TO DETERMINE TO WHAT EXTENT TWO METHODS OF ITEM ANALYSIS - NORM REFERENCED AND CRITERION REFERENCED - YIELD THE SAME RELATIVE EVALUATION OF TEST ITEMS. ITEMS WHICH DISCRIMINATED WELL BETWEEN STUDENTS SCORING HIGH AND LOW ON POST-TESTS WERE STUDIED TO SEE IF THEY ALSO DISCRIMINATED WELL BETWEEN PRETRAINING AND…

The feasibility of using criterion referenced tests (CRTs) in a large-scale evaluation conducted in an effectiveness evaluation context was investigated. The study began by examining the theory that structures the development and validation of CRTs to discover whether, on theoretical grounds alone, CRTs are suitable or not suitable for large-scale…

Criticizes currently available tests on listening comprehension, presenting some new ones, with explanations of their innovative features. Sees danger in overemphasis on objectivity, as it tends to exaggerate the choice-making aspect of the orientation level (Grades 5 and 6), thus contradicting its pedagogical purposes. (Text is in German.)…

Argues that tests should be used to improve instructional programs. Specific suggestions include the study of reports on test performance, item analysis on classroom tests, item analysis as a part of standardized test reports, use of diagnostic or inventory tests, and careful selection of test items. (PK)

Concerns expressed regarding the use of work sample systems for assessing handicapped students include: limitations of trait assessment; criteria and standards; application of work sample results; need to measure learning outcomes; and limited focus. Recommendations include use of competency analysis, selection criteria, and commercial and locally…