The consequences of formula scoring versus number right scoring are examined in relation to the assumptions commonly made about the behavior of examinees in testing situations. The choice between the two is shown to be dependent upon having reduced error variance or unbiasedness as a goal. (Author/JKS)

Two criteria are discussed for determining cutting scores on a predictor variable for identifying cases of likely child abuse--utility maximizing and error minimizing. Utility maximizing is the preferable criterion, as it optimizes the balance between the costs of incorrect decisions and the benefits of correct decisions. (Author/JDD)

This paper deals with test fairness regarding a test consisting of two parts: (1) a "common" section, taken by all students; and (2) a "variable" section, in which some students may answer a different set of questions from other students. For example, a test taken by several thousand students each year contains a common multiple-choice portion and…