The application of latent trait theory to classroom tests necessitates the use of small sample sizes for parameter estimation. Computer generated data were used to assess the accuracy of estimation of the slope and location parameters in the two parameter logistic model with fixed abilities and varying small sample sizes. The maximum likelihood…

The Rasch model of test theory is described in general terms, compared with latent trait theory, and shown to have interesting applications for the measurement of affective as well as cognitive traits. Three assumption of the Rasch model are stated to support the conclusion that calibration of the items and tests is independent of the examinee…

To investigate the effect of violating the assumption of equal item difficulty on Kuder-Richardson (KR) Formula 21 reliability coefficient, 670 eighth-and ninth- grade students were administered 26 short, homogeneous "tests" of mathematics concepts and skills. Both KR Formula 20 and KR Formula 21 were used to estimate reliability on each…

The adequacy of a test developed for statewide assessment of basic mathematics skills was investigated. The test, comprised of multiple-choice items reflecting a series of behavioral objectives, was compared with a more extensive criterion measure generated from the same objectives by the application of a strict item sampling model. In many…

For a sample of 270 students who sought on their own initiative counseling on academic, career, vocational, and personal matters at a university counseling and testing center, intercorrelations of their responses to 20 statements on the Evaluation of Counselors Scale were factor-analyzed. Tables of results are presented and discussed. (Author/JKS)

A higher than expected correlation between "passages in" and "passages out" scores on reading comprehension tests indicated that the practical importance of passage dependence is probably not as great as has been commonly believed. (Editor)

Binary, probability, and ordinal scoring procedures for multiple-choice items were examined. In two situations, it was found that both the probability and ordinal scoring systems were more reliable than the binary scoring method. (Author/CTM)

Providing examinees with advanced knowledge of the difficulty of an item led to an increase in test performance with no loss of reliability. This finding was consistent across several test formats. ( Author/JKS)

One hundred-fifty subjects studied a passage with questions interspersed at different locations. Total level of acquisition was highest in treatments involving postquestions and no questions. The results were attributed to the influence of adjunct questions on learner expectations that affect the selective processing of information. (Author/JAC)

A Likert seven-choice response format for personality inventories allows finer distinctions by subjects than the traditional two-choice format. The Eysenck Personality Inventory was employed in the present study to test the hypothesis that use of the expanded format would result in a clearer and more accurate indication of test structure.…

The National Assessment of Educational Progress, a federally funded testing group, found that 17-year-olds today know less about science than high school students in 1969-70 and 1972-73, when previous assessments were conducted. Here is a closer look at that assessment. (Author/RK) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document:…

A factor analysis of Rotter's internal-external locus of control scale is described. The four factors extracted were there correlated with several political attitude instruments. Results lead authors to suggest a modification in Rotter's scale, particularly in the "just world" items. (JKS)

Some of the merits and pitfalls of multiple choice examinations are outlined and ways of increasing reliability and feedback information are summarized. Included are discussions of basic format, examples of poor design, examples of augmentation, and feedback from computerized grading. (LBH)

Comments upon objective test items which evaluate history students' analytical and interpretive skills. Concludes that properly constructed multiple choice test items go beyond testing for rote memorization of content. (Author/DB)

Argues that instruction in thinking skills must be regularly assessed in the classroom. Offers an example of a basic format for testing thinking skills. Concludes that teachers must test thinking skills if such skills are to be valued by students. (JDH)