The Measuring Early Learning Quality and Outcomes (MELQO) initiative began in 2014 in anticipation of a new global emphasis on early childhood development (ECD). Led by UNESCO, the World Bank, the Center for Universal Education at the Brookings Institution, and UNICEF, the initiative aims to promote feasible, accurate and useful measurement of…

This paper provides educators with a general perspective on computer literacy and an in-depth examination of the Computer Literacy Awareness Assessment conducted by the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC). Addressing computer literacy as part of the ongoing use of computers in a classroom setting is identified as the most reasonable…

Standardized reading tests and associated issues involved in the teaching of reading skills are discussed, with illustrative examples of reading tests commonly used in Australia. The nature of standardized reading tests is analyzed, and the circumstances under which such tests should be used are outlined. Interpretation of scores from standardized…

A study was commissioned to develop and validate a test to assess the attitudes of Alberta students towards the world of work. A revised instrument was created that used 75 items grouped into 15 scales, of five items each, measuring perceptions about available opportunities. During the validation field trial the instrument was administered to 467…

The Career Interest Test (third edition) is a 63-item forced choice and individually administered instrument of 7 vocational interest categories: Outdoor, Practical, Scientific, Creative, Business, Office, and People Contact. The test is designed for use in vocational contexts as a practical guide to educational and vocational planning. The item…

Suggests that ELLA (English Language and Literacy Assessment ) implemented in New South Wales, Australia, fails four tests for sound diagnostic assessment set out in a standard reference (K.W. Howell et al. "Curriculum Based Evaluation")--tests for logicality, reliability, validity, and accuracy and practicality. (RS)

Claims that arguments about the invalidity, purposelessness, and misleading nature of ELLA (English Language and Literacy Assessment ) implemented in New South Wales, Australia, remain intact despite attempts to counter the arguments. Presents a detailed critique of arguments presented in an article in the previous of this journal supporting ELLA.…

This document contains the instrument used, results gathered, and discussions of the instrument used to measure students' (grades 10 and 12) understanding of science in its technological and social context. The following sections are included: (1) "Introduction"; (2) "A Comparison of Grade 10 and 12"; (3) "The Grade 10…

Time series analysis is applied to an assessment of the temporary and permanent impact of the 1975 Australian Family Law Act and its effect on number of divorces. The application and construct validity of the model is examined. (Author/PN)

This manual describes the theory behind the Learning Process Questionnaire (LPQ) used in Australia and defines what the subscale and scale scores mean. The LPQ is a 36-item self-report questionnaire that yields scores on three basic motives for learning and three learning strategies, and on the approaches to learning that are formed by these…

This manual describes the theory behind the Study Process Questionnaire (SPQ) and explains what the subscale and scale scores mean. The SPQ is a 42-item self-report questionnaire used in Australia to assess the extent to which a tertiary student at a college or university endorses different approaches to learning and the motives and strategies…

Discusses a procedure for assessing individual performance in team sports. Authentic assessment using observation of players' actions during matches yielded the efficacy index and volume of play index. A method of producing one performance score combining both indices and reflecting motor and tactical skills is suggested. (SM)

The Profile of Real/Ideal Scholastic Motivation (PRISM) self-report instrument is included in the user's manual. PRISM is a set of 30 postulates which measures attitudes in an educational setting (i.e., educational self-theory). The instrument has a closed response format chosen on the grounds of reliability, validity, and reactivity. It is scaled…

The role of different types of testing instruments in second language programs is discussed. Knowledge-based tests, including discrete-point and integrative tests are contrasted with direct tests, including the Foreign Service Institute Scale and the Australian Second Language Proficiency Ratings (ASLPR). The ASLPR is described in detail in terms…

Questions often raised about intelligence tests are discussed: (1) the definition of intelligence; (2) the definition of intelligence quotient; (3) the kinds of tests available; (4) validity; (5) fairness to minority groups; (6) use made of test results; (7) differences in results among various intelligence tests; (8) differences in scores using…