The article presents a matrix technique to evaluate how technical training prepares a person to perform defined tasks after graduation from a training program. (Author)

One major reason for the problems of test validation is an overemphasis on the need for empirical validity data, and a failure to recognize the primary importance of explicit verbal definitions of what the test is intended to measure and rational arguments in support of the means chosen for obtaining the measurement. (Author/LC)

In response to Ebel (TM 508 146) Gardner argues that neither intrinsic rational validity associated with ability tests nor a validity coefficient relating a test to performance as the sole information about validity is sufficient. All relevant data about a test and its functioning are essential in describing the validity of the test. (Author/LC)

Collaboration between special educators and vocational evaluators can begin with vocational assessment which consists of three major aspects: work sampling, psychometric testing, and critical observation of behaviors. Assessment results can result in improved academic programing, career exploration activities, or modified IEPs. (CL)

The Florida International Diagnostic-Prescriptive Vocational Competency Profile was administered to 50 secondary level and 50 postsecondary level disabled trainees to establish interrater reliability and concurrent validity. Data analyses demonstrated the Profile has the technical characteristics of interrater reliability and concurrent validity.…

Examines the legal issues concerning (1) cultural bias in educational tests; (2) the validity of employment tests; and (3) the disclosure of test materials. Discusses the legal interpretations of psychometric concepts that have arisen from recent litigation. (Author/GC)

The purpose of licensing and certification tests is to protect the public. This purpose determines test content, difficulty of the items, test format, use of test scores in decision making, and ways of setting standards. Currently being explored are methods to ensure continued competence, and legal considerations related to antidiscrimination…

Determines how the Self-Directed Search (SDS) achieves its effects. High school girls were assessed before and after treatment for vocational aspirations, knowledge of typology, and information seeking. Nonsignificant findings imply that SDS achieves its effects partly because of its numerous occupational options. Instructional booklets increase…

Reviews recent developments in the use of commercially available written integrity tests for employee selection. Discusses legal issues related to the use of the polygraph and integrity tests, and reviews empirical research on the reliability, criterion-related validity, construct validity, fakeability, and adverse effects of integrity tests. (TE)

Argues that occupational tests can exclude racial minorities and that many industrial psychologists have overlooked evidence that many tests are biased and that some claims for validity generalization are based on faulty science. Outlines what plaintiff's counsel looks for in deciding to try a testing case, and provides primer on how to challenge…

It is a myth that adverse impact is either a property or a defect of employment tests. It is actually a property of the labor market, affected by disparities in academic achievement among groups. Agencies should use appropriate rigorous tests, eliminate artificial employment barriers, and consider a wide cross-section of job requirements. (SK)

Validity differences for a "g" (general factor of intelligence) score calculated on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) alone versus the ASVAB plus 9 experimental tests were determined for 3,922 military recruits. A validity gain of potential utility was observed for hands-on performance measures. (SLD)

Analyzes the evolution of Chinese national examinations with the "catastrophe" model. Goals, content, form, and process of exams were influenced by social and political forces. Competence over 4,000 years of Chinese history was defined as military prowess, Confucian-style scholarship, Western-style military expertise, proletarian…

Explores certification and license testing and questions the extent to which scientific standards are actually governing policies and practices. Compares the practices of two states that have developed licensure programs for the same field and points out differences in these examinations. (SLD)