Two tests for the jackknife autocorrelation estimator r(Q2) are evaluated. It is shown that a test based on the conventional approach for estimating the standard error of a jackknife estimator leads to unacceptable Type I error. An alternative approach is proposed that leads to a more satisfactory test when n>20. (Author/SLD)

Negative coefficients of reliability, sometimes returned by the standard formula for estimation of the internal-consistency reliability, are neither theoretically nor numerically correct. Alternative strategies for test development in this special case are suggested. (Author)

A simple technique, developed by A. Phillips (1987) is used to approximate the covariance between the Mantel-Haenszel log-odds-ratio estimator for a 2 x 2 x k table and the sample marginal proportions. These results are then applied to obtain an approximate variance estimate of an adjusted risk difference based on the Mantel-Haenszel odds-ratio…

It is argued that point estimates of effect sizes and confidence intervals around these point estimates are more appropriate statistics for individual studies than reliance on statistical significance testing and that meta-analysis is appropriate for analysis of data from multiple studies. (SLD)

Discusses commonalities in the papers of this special issue, addresses concerns about errors of omission expressed by T. Knapp, and provides some recommendations for the use of statistical significance testing with requirements for estimates of effect sizes. (SLD)

This paper presents a method for estimating the accuracy and consistency of classifications based on test scores. The scores can be produced by any scoring method, including the formation of a weighted composite. The estimates use data from a single form. The reliability of the score is used to estimate its effective test length in terms of…

Greater use of employment tests for selecting workers will mean that rewards for developing competencies measured by the tests will rise, increasing the supply of workers with the skills. Greater use of tests to select workers will also change the sorting of workers across jobs. The impact on total output will depend on the extent to which the…

Procedures recommended in the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (Third Edition) (WISC-III) manual for factorial estimation may be replaced by new methods using the computer and a spreadsheet program. Constants and formulas needed to draft a spreadsheet program for estimating the factors using WISC-III scaled scores are presented. (SLD)

Nonparametric item response models were used to investigate psychometric properties of the Beck Depression Inventory in 648 depressed outpatients and 1,182 nonpatient college students. Estimated values for some options did not align with a priori weights in the college sample, and some option characteristic curves were problematic in both samples.…

Vocabulary fixed-item (FIT), computerized-adaptive (CAT), and self-adapted (SAT) tests were compared with 121 college students. CAT was more precise and efficient than SAT, which was more precise and efficient than FIT. SAT also yielded higher ability estimates for individuals with lower verbal self-concepts. (SLD)

This document reports on the first segment of a project that estimates the determinants of individual enlistment decisions using the 1992 second followup of the National Educational Longitudinal Study (NELS). The NELS sample contains youths who were high school seniors in 1992. The project's first segment estimates scores on the Armed Forces…

This study offers field estimates of the factor validity and internal consistency reliability of the Self-Esteem Index (SEI) using SEI data from 208 regular and special education students in grades 3, 4, and 5. Exploratory factor analytic results support the existence of four factors as anticipated; however, various inconsistencies are noted…

Many multiple aptitude test batteries, including the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT), used for assigning or classifying individuals to jobs or for occupational counseling have subtests covering a broad range of content such as science, mathematics, reading, vocabulary, perceptual, mechanical, or technical knowledge. This content reflects…

The subject of this dissertation is the examination of differential item functioning (DIF) through the use of loglinear Rasch models with latent classes. DIF refers to the probability that a correct response among equally able test takers is different for various racial, ethnic, and gender groups. Because usual methods of detecting DIF give little…

The shortcomings of the conventional way of using and interpreting multiple-choice tests are summarized. Some theories and methodologies that can be applied for better use multiple-choice test items are described. Empirical facts are introduced to support the theoretical observations. New strategies are proposed that will reduce "noise"…