The relation of average grades awarded to the average ability of the students was studied in a large sample of colleges. The mean and standard deviation of freshman classes on an ability test, along with the mean and standard deviation of the freshman year grades obtained by classes over a five year period was available for several hundred…

Using string-manipulation algorithms, FORTRAN computer programs were designed for analysis of written material. The programs measure length of a text and its complexity in terms of the average length of words and sentences, map the occurrences of keywords or phrases, calculate word frequency distribution and certain indicators of style. Trials of…

The experiment described in this bulletin is the result of a previous study of experimental examinations in mathematics (Bulletin No. 2). A basic multifacet test was constructed with 21 mathematical situations in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry and presented in three separate forms: Type 1 Traditional; 2 multi-choice (with four choices); and 3…

An investigation was conducted in order to make a comparison of grade-point averages, earned by military-dependent students in Overseas Dependent Schools, with the grade-point averages of a comparable non-mobile student society with whom they graduated in the United States. Data was derived from the permanent record cards of 2,173 graduated…

An experimental course in college-level, introductory German, based on a modification of Fred S. Keller's work in individualized instruction, is described in this study. The establishment of specific time limits for completion of predetermined subject matter and the provision of tutorial services are essential variations from the classical…

The experiment described was designed to evaluate the possible effects on students in a small seminar of an evaluation system in which students were freed from some of the pressures of the conventional grading system and allowed to participate in the grading process, and to determine whether such participation would affect the acquisition of…

Black graduate students rated 12- and 13-year old students' writing. On negative writing samples, raters manifested high racial bias in favor of Blacks against Orientals and Whites. There was little evidence of racial bias with neutral writing; and on positive writing, bias was sex-directed rather than racial. (Author/RD)

Suggests ways for the instructor to turn evaluation into an open-ended transaction with the student writer rather than a final pronouncement. Suggests that teachers should ask questions of the writer to clarify the rhetorical situation and goal, give the student one piece of advice per paper, and help the student set a reasonable goal for each…

The background of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute experiential program, how it was established, and how it currently operates are described. The Major Qualifying Project and the Interactive Qualifying Project, faculty roles and administrative structures, the humanities and evaluation of the program are discussed. (MLW)

Describes a study in which two types of testing were used in an engineering course to determine significant differences in evaluating student performance. Results were not conclusive. (RT)

Presents the Wilkinson Scales for writing assessment and shows how one eighth grade student's essay, using the scales, can be evaluated for grammatical and mechanical problems without devaluing the emotion that went into its composition. (JC)

An annotated bibliography that surveys a variety of pedagogical literature and includes articles proposing ideas, techniques, strategies, and innovations most recommended by instructors of large classes is provided. (MLW)

Maintains that television network news has the capacity to graphically illuminate on-going events which demand sociological explanation. Shows how segments of network news were incorporated into a humanistic sociology course in order to provide students with clear and concise images of social problems. (JDH)

Describes assessment techniques for accommodating various facets of the process approach to teaching writing. Includes rating scales, self-evaluations, peer evaluations, holistic scoring, and team grading. (EL)

Examines recent literature focusing on the achievement of poverty students at inner city schools. Discusses the implications of findings in the areas of (1) student grouping and individualization for instructional purposes, (2) learning time for basic skills, (3) grading practices, (4) discipline, (5) grade structure, and (6) differences…