Six papers on applications of item response theory are presented. Applications involved include item bias, criterion-referenced measurement problems, test score equating, computerized ability testing, information processing approaches, unidimensional binary responses, multidimensional and polychotomous responses, and estimation and goodness of…

Philosophical and theoretical debates have created some uncertain direction in the curriculum field. The article claims that efforts toward systematic curriculum reform may fail because of inconsistency, maintaining that effective curricular and systematic reform will occur when stakeholders agree on intended goals and identify actions that…

The general intelligence factor (g) was investigated using 170 university students across three batteries of ability measures: (1) a short-term memory battery; (2) the Multidimensional Aptitude Battery; and (3) a reaction time battery. Results support the notion of g and suggest short-term memory as an essential aspect of intelligence. (SLD)

Administers an experimental college version of the Musical Aptitude Profile (CMAP) and 2 motivation measures to 187 nonmusic majors in a music appreciation course. Eliminates CMAP results from analysis resulting from low reliability. Includes data table that were significantly related. (NL)

Empirical validation of the first-order and higher-order factor structures of the structure-of-intellect (SOI) model was provided by reanalysis of a database of 39 measures administered to 178 Coast Guard Cadets. Results suggest that SOI could be reconceptualized as a pyramid-like hierarchical theory of intelligence. (SLD)

Discussion of achievement tests and aptitude tests focuses on their relevance to information skills instruction. Topics include planning for resource-based activities by media specialists; history of student achievement and library skills; reading achievement; and results of state studies on achievement tests. (LRW)

This article describes two projects based on Robert J. Sternberg's theory of successful intelligence and designed to provide theory-based testing for university admissions. The first, Rainbow Project, provided a supplementary test of analytical, practical, and creative skills to augment the SAT in predicting college performance. The Rainbow…

Part of the third-largest school district in the nation, 77 percent of Chicago's nearly 427,000 public school students are poor, as defined by eligibility for participation in free or reduced-cost lunch programs. Many are members of minorities; many have limited proficiency in English. To make a successful transition to college--even to graduate…

The usefulness of the Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT) as a predictor of student achievement in secondary mathematics courses was studied. Subjects were 977 students from 7 Iowa schools in grades 6 through 9. Data collected included their IAAT scores and Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS) mathematics skills test scores, as well as data about…

The potential usefulness of self-assessment of low-level aptitudes, such as basic or elementary reading, writing, and calculating, was explored in a test validation context, following the model of B. Davey (1980, 1990). Self-assessments were sought to provide criterion-related or construct validities that might otherwise be unobtainable for some…

The use of aptitude and competency testing in the public school system can have some undesired effects on students in terms of the stress and anxiety tests can impose. Adolescence is already a time in a child's life when many different pressures are coming to bear upon the psyche. Among the most undesirable consequences that can result from the…

This guide for prospective international graduate students provides information on the American system of graduate education. Topics covered are: (1) rationale for graduate study in the United States; (2) definition and description of graduate education; (3) appropriate background for graduate study; (3) selecting a graduate program; (4) the…

A study was conducted to assess the use of the Psychological Services Bureau's Aptitude Test for Practical Nursing (PSB Aptitude Test) as an entrance requirement for the licensed vocational nurse (LVN) program at College of the Sequoias. The study sought to determine whether the PSB Aptitude Test was a valid indicator of success in the LVN…

The usefulness of tests for college admissions decisions, guidance, and student placement is discussed by a representative of the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Since high school curricula often vary among schools in both content and quality, standardized test scores provide a common measure of applicant performace and indicate a grasp of…

As a consequence of a validation study based on over 200 skilled technicians employed in engine manufacturing, seven aptitude tests were administered to 50 applicants in June 1982. This report presents correlations between test scores and three criteria (math grades, job performance ratings, and a composite) for the 26 people who entered the…