Two methods of 'equating' tests using item response theory (IRT) are compared, one using true scores, the other using the estimated distribution of observed scores. On the data studied, they yield almost indistinguishable results. This is a reassuring result for users of IRT equating methods. (Author)

This study was designed to explore the practicality, flexibility, reliability, and sensitivity of the Criterion Group Method of measuring the effectiveness and efficiency of indexing, a method using a criterion group to set the standard for "ideal" indexing. These major variables were examined: (1) size of document sample, (2) size of…

Two independent studies were conducted to investigate possible differences in General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB) aptitude M resulting from the use of different test equipment (wooden vs. plastic apparatus.) As part of a ten-year longitudinal study of Vocational Development being conducted in the Department of Vocational Education at The…

This study demonstrated the efficacy of a Likert format in contrast to two choice formats in eliciting a more normal distribution of internal-external locus of control responses in a highly variable lower class university sample. The revised Likert format, in contrast to the original, collaborated other research evidence suggesting a multifactor…

The suggestion that multiple-choice items can be converted to true-false items without essentially changing what the item measures and with possible improvement in efficiency is investigated. Each of the 90 four-choice items in a natural science test was rewritten into a pair of true-false items, one true, one false. The resulting 180 items were…

Male and female enlistee samples were compared for total groups and by enlistment region in terms of their performance on the Airman Qualifying Examination (AQE) and the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). Women in the Air Force (WAF) test-retest performance was evaluated on the Armed Forces Women's Selection Test (AFWST) which is…

Research to date on adaptive (sequential, branched, individualized, tailored, programmed, response-contingent) ability testing is reviewed and summarized, following a brief review of problems inherent in conventional individual and group approaches to ability measurement. Research reviewed includes empirical, simulation and theoretical studies of…

The present study was concerned with several currently unanswered questions, two of which are: what is an empirically determined ratio of multiple choice to equivalent true-false items which can be answered in a given amount of time?; and for achievement test items administered within a classroom situation, which of the two formats under…

Investigated construct validity of four self-report, self-concept instruments: Bledsoe Self-Concept Scale (BSCS), Children's Self-Concept Scale (CSCS), Self-Esteem Inventory (SEI) and Purdue Self-Concept Scale (PSCS). In assessing the self-concepts of 175 fourth-grade children convergent validity of the tests was not established. (Author)

Pratt's measure C on the class concentration of bibliometric distributions is calculated and interpreted for the laws of Zipf, Mandelbrot, and Lotka and geometric distribution, and comparisons are made of the results. An explicit mathematical formula which unifies disparate theories is derived and tested. (Author/CLB)

Studies of the reliability, normative data, construct validity, and concurrent validity of the Social Perception Behavior Rating Scale used with mildly learning-disabled, behavior-disordered, and nondisabled children indicated adequate reliability, marked differences in scores of handicapped and nonhandicapped children, and a logical pattern of…

An institution can test seniors with the ACT College Outcome Measures Project (COMP) exam, then subtract from the senior score an estimated freshman score. Studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, indicate that this method is not reliable to make judgments about the quality of general education programs. (Author/MLW)

Compared three methods of rating thoughts: self-rating by subjects, rating by experts with thoughts presented randomly, and rating by experts with thoughts presented in context among 107 students who listed their thoughts prior to giving a speech. Results indicated all three methods were equal in predictions of speech anxiety and performance.…

Examines the interclass and intraclass reliability of three published informal reading inventories and their alternate forms and concludes that though acceptable, the reliabilities of the inventories suggest the need for cautious interpretation. (HOD)

This paper compares modified Guttman and item response theory (IRT) based procedures for classifying examinees in ordered levels when each level is represented by several multiple choice test items. In the modified Guttman procedure, within-level number correct scores are mapped to binary level mastery scores. Examinees are then assigned to levels…