Discusses evaluation of tests both in terms of their measurement properties and their potential social consequences. Presents a model for evaluating test validity based on empirical evidence as well as on ethical decisions. Stresses the importance of construct validity as a rational foundation for test predictiveness and relevance; and the…

To measure any element or characteristics of an early childhood education system, the general context of interdependencies must be assessed in order to take into account possible interactions of the characteristics measured with characteristics of the student, teacher, situation, and background. A comprehensive program of individual assessment…

This article is a response to an article in a previous issue by Robert L. Williams on unfairness in testing blacks with existing instruments. This paper discusses: (1) testing as systematic inquiry; (2) the question of bias; (3) test use; and (4) the consequences of not testing. (CJ)

The Committee on Ability Testing's report (see ED 213 770 and ED 213 771) is shown to give primacy to employment productivity and efficiency values, creating an institutional bias in their analysis of testing. The importance of a balance of alternative multiple perspectives to broaden testing criteria, standards, fairness, and social values served…