Results of experimentation suggest that the cubic spline is a convenient and consistent method for providing an accurate description of displacement-time data and for obtaining the corresponding time derivatives. (MJB)

Two new methods for constructing a credibility interval (CI)--an interval containing a specified proportion of true validity description--are discussed, from a frequentist perspective. Tolerance intervals, unlike the current method of constructing the CI, have performance characteristics across repeated applications and may be useful in validity…

Two alternatives to the problems of conducting planned and post hoc comparisons in tests of concordance and discordance for G groups of judges are examined. The two models are illustrated using existing data. (Author/JKS)

Data assembled from assessment centers run by an international manufacturing organization are analyzed for the purpose of evaluating which tests and exercises effectively measure specific traits or characteristics of subjects and which don't. The importance of trained observers is also stressed. (RW).

Copies of this program may be obtained from the author at the University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy, University Park, Los Angeles 90007. (CB)

The classical estimate of a binomial probability function is to estimate its mean in the usual manner and to substitute the results in the appropriate expression. Two alternative estimation procedures are described and examined. Emphasis is given to the single administration estimate of the mastery test reliability. (Author/CTM)

Generalizability theory is used to characterize and quantify expected variance in cutting scores and to compare the Nedelsky and Angoff procedures for establishing a cutting score. Results suggest that the restricted nature of the Nedelsky (inferred) probability scale may limit its applicability in certain contexts. (Author/BW)

Estimates of the internal consistency and reliability of the first principal component are provided through the use of the largest characteristic root and associated vector of the equicorrelation matrix. The estimate of the internal consistency is also shown to be a lower bound for the measure provided by Horn (1969). (Author)

An approach is provided for calculating maximum values of the Kappa statistic of J. Cohen (1960) as a function of observed agreement proportions between evaluators. Separate calculations are required for different matrix sizes and observed agreement levels. (SLD)

Reexamines the reliability and validity of the Peabody Individual Achievement Test-Revised (PIAT-R) and the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT) Written Expression scoring systems, applying theory and more appropriate statistical analyses. The WIAT written-expression scoring system was found to have more items that were both reliable and…

The asymptotic standard deviation (SD) of the alpha coefficient with standardized variables is derived under normality. The research shows that the SD of the standardized alpha coefficient becomes smaller as the number of examinees and/or items increase. Furthermore, this research shows that the degree of the dependence of the SD on the number of…

A method for estimation of reliability for multiple-component measuring instruments with clustered data is outlined. The approach is applicable with hierarchical designs where individuals are nested within higher order units and exhibit possibly related performance on components of a scale of interest. The procedure is developed within the…

The purpose was to examine psychosocial factors that influence the physical activity behaviors of adults with brain injuries. Two differing models, based on Harter's model of self-worth, were proposed to examine the relationship between perceived competence, social support, physical self-worth, affect, and motivation. Adults numbering 384 with…

The INTASC Principles, when used as the basis for developing appropriate measurement instruments to assess teacher dispositions, provide a viable approach to the diagnosis and remediation of skill-related affective performance in teacher candidates and also to meeting NCATE requirements for Standard 1. In this symposium, the development and use of…