Used simulations of computerized adaptive tests to evaluate results yielded by four commonly used ability estimation methods: maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and three Bayesian approaches. Results show clear distinctions between MLE and Bayesian methods. (SLD)

Proposes an algorithm that minimizes the asymptotic variance of the maximum-likelihood (ML) estimator of a linear combination of abilities of interest. The criterion results in a closed-form expression that is easy to evaluate. Also shows how the algorithm can be modified if the interest is in a test with a "simple ability structure."…

Studied item exposure in a computerized adaptive test when the item selection algorithm presents examinees with questions they were asked in a previous test administration. Results with 178 repeat examinees on a medical technologists' test indicate that the combined use of an adaptive algorithm to select items and latent trait theory to estimate…

The extent to which variables from a previous study (P. Mosenthal, 1996) on document processing influenced difficulty on 165 tasks from the pose scales of five national adult literacy scales was studied. Three process variables accounted for 78% of the variance when prose task difficulty was defined using level scores. Implications for computer…

Describes three open-ended response types that could broaden the conception of mathematical problem solving used in computerized admissions tests: (1) mathematical expression (ME); (2) generating examples (GE); and (3) and graphical modeling (GM). Illustrates how combining ME, GE, and GM can form extended constructed response problems. (SLD)

Tests the hypothesis that the introduction of computer-adaptive testing may help to alleviate test anxiety and diminish the relationship between test anxiety and test performance. Compares a sample of Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) General Test takers who took the computer-adaptive version of the test with another sample who took the…

Discusses computerized dynamic testing with cues and items presented according to objective algorithms, elaborating on appropriate designs and psychometric models. Presents two studies involving 311 military recruits and 584 recruits that support the psychometric properties of a test measuring the susceptibility of reasoning to stressors. (SLD)

In a simulation study of ability and estimation of differential item functioning (DIF) in computerized adaptive tests, Rasch-based DIF statistics were highly correlated with generating DIF, but DIF statistics tended to be slightly smaller than in the three-parameter logistic model analyses. (SLD)

Theoretical null distributions of several fit statistic have been derived for paper-and-pencil tests. Examined whether these distributions also hold for computerized adaptive tests through simulation. Rates for two statistics studied were found to be similar in most cases. (SLD)

Proposes an item-selection algorithm for neutralizing the differential effects of time limits on computerized adaptive test scores. Uses a statistical model for distributions of examinees' response times on items in a bank that is updated each time an item is administered. Demonstrates the method using an item bank from the Armed Services…

Evaluated the distribution of person fit within the computerized-adaptive testing (CAT) environment through simulation. Found that, within the CAT environment, these indexes tend not to follow a standard normal distribution. Person fit indexes had means and standard deviations that were quite different from the expected. (SLD)

Investigated three models that permit restricted examinee control over revising previous answers in the context of adaptive testing, using simulation. Two models permitting item revisions worked well in preserving test fairness and accuracy, and one model may preserve some cognitive processing styles developed by examinees for a linear testing…

Although instructional methods are moving in ever greater number to a multimedia base, testing is not. What principles should be considered in correcting this misalignment?

The paper uses both the author's experience of research training, and the empirical studies of autism in which he participated over the last 40-plus years, to derive research lessons and to consider the needs and prospects for future research. Attention is drawn to: the importance of mentors; the need to use technologies in a hypothesis-testing…

Integrity[TM], an online application for testing both the statistical integrity of the test and the academic integrity of the examinees, was evaluated for this review. Program features and the program output are described. An overview of the statistics in Integrity[TM] is provided, and the application is illustrated with a small simulation study.…