The effectiveness of a model for determining a minimal cut-off score for criterion-referenced tests was examined. The model, based upon techniques presented originally by Nedelsky and by Angoff, was first used in conjunction with a multiple choice test developed for use in certifying school counselors in Georgia. A "knowledge estimation panel" was…

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for each of seven terminal objectives for a 6- to 9-week orientation to home economics occupations course for seventh grade students. The titles of the seven terminal objectives are Overview, Human Care Cluster, Food and Nutrition, Home Service Cluster,…

The logical and psychological bases for setting cutting scores for criterion-referenced tests are examined; they are found to be intrinsically arbitrary and are often examples of misdirected precision and axiomatization. The term, criterion referenced, originally referred to a technique for making test scores meaningful by controlling the test…

To determine the effectiveness of a model driver education curriculum in leading to safe vehicle operation among beginning drivers, the Safe Peformance Curriculum, based on instructional objectives derived from analysis of the driver's tasks, was developed and pilot tested. Students were randomly assigned to one of the following: a Pre-Driver…

Criterion-referenced testing (CRT) is defined as a method of ascertaining an individual's status with respect to some performance standard. Computer-assisted testing (CAT) is a method of constructing tests using a variety of computer techniques such as a single test computer printouts, stored item banks, teacher specified criteria, machine…

An evaluation of a bilingual education TV series was conducted involving 6-year-old English speaking, Spanish speaking, and bilingual children at four sites. Children were assigned to control and experimental groups with the latter group seeing four 30 minute shows. A pretest-posttest design was employed with the pretest serving as the covariate…

The specific role, function, and qualifications for six jobs in diagnostic radiologic technology (excluding physicians and health physicists) were delineated through task analyses. The levels are not job titles but can be described in terms of function. Among other duties, the Level I position provides nonspecialized assistance to radiologic…

The objective of this study was to show that standardized reading scores could be adequately estimated from scores on a criterion-referenced test in reading. This would reduce classroom test time, while, at the same time, provide the kinds of information teachers need to guide instruction, and the kinds of information administrators require for…

Problems concerning the misuse of tests by teachers and administrators are discussed. Two common misconceptions of the basic function of tests are: (1) the test as an incentive for study; and (2) the test as a learning experience. Rather, a test should be conceived of as a measuring instrument. More appropriate conceptions of tests are: (1) tests…

The Wisconsin Design for Reading Skill Development is a skill-centered approach to reading instruction in the elementary school. Skills in six areas have been identified: word attack, comprehension, study skills, self-directed reading, interpretive reading, and creative reading. The Design provides behavioral objectives and criterion-referenced…

This revision and expansion of the 1966 edition of the student materials, ED 040 101, is comprised of student workbook and text for Unit I. As an introduction to economics, it is designed to provide a frame of reference for the study of contemporary economic problems. It is a careful study of such concepts as scarcity, wants, resources, and…

This revision and expansion of the 1966 edition of the student materials, ED 040 101, is comprised of a student workbook and text for Unit II. It is a careful study of the structure and performance of the United States Market system including the aspects of how market competition between buyers and sellers affects resource allocation, what is…

The method of utilizing a criterion-referenced testing system by employing the following progression of curriculum development is recommended: 1) A theory of childhood development or learning is identified; 2) Curriculum is developed based upon that theory; 3) Criterion-referenced tests, with items stated in behavioral terms, are developed. An…

In order to make formal instruction more responsive to individual needs, the following study implemented a procedure for transforming a conventional set of course materials into an interactive learning environment. The basic mechanism for interaction was a computer generated and computer administered quiz that sampled from concepts in the reading…

The Conference sought to provide a user-based and -oriented assessment of performance contracting for education. It focused on delineating the current interest in performance contracting, the technique's demonstrated strengths and weaknesses, and its potential as an alternative approach to school system resource allocation. Six commissioned papers…