Using item response theory to investigate differential item functioning (DIF), students' expected course grades were examined and found to function similarly across sex and race. These grades were incorporated into the matching criterion, enhancing the validity of subgroup comparisons for the third-grade mathematics test taken by 1,050 students.…

Describes the development of a language assessment instrument to be used across Canada to place adult newcomers in instructional programs appropriate for their level of English proficiency. Describes field testing and rating of the instrument, and discusses work in progress on the ongoing validation of the instrument. (31 references) (Author/CK)

Used 105 learning disabled children in grades one through three to assess the psychometric properties of a pictorial scale of perceived competence. Results reveal a three-factor solution for factor structure: (1) academic competence; (2) physical competence; and (3) social acceptance. Findings suggest that learning disabled pupils can discern…

Utilizing the Test of English Proficiency, developed by Seoul National University (TEPS), examined comparability between the paper-based language test and the computer-based language test based on content and construct validation employing content analyses based on corpus linguistic techniques in addition to such statistical analyses as…

The development of an experimental measure for assessing growth in movement in children (ages birth-3) is described. Results from the use of the Movement General Outcome Measurement with 29 infants and toddlers demonstrated the feasibility of the measure. The 6-minute assessment was found reliable in terms of inter-observer agreement. (Contains…

This study compared the mental health of 40 13- to 15-year-olds who had experienced the Bosnian conflict. Subjects scored either high or low on two self-report symptom checklists and were also assessed with qualitative methods. Results indicated that in 9 subjects the reported presence or absence of symptoms did not correspond to the qualitatively…

Examines multiple ways in which the normalization of sexuality might be interrogated. Argues that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered faculty and administrators can more effectively contravene the normalizing practices of heterosexism by refusing to remain silent about issues of sexuality. Includes implications for practicing researchers and…

Comparable scales to measure quality of early intervention services for infants and toddlers as perceived by parents and service providers were developed based on the Recommended Practices in Early Intervention. Scales were administered to 209 parents and 177 providers. Parents' perceptions of quality were related to family centeredness of…

This article presents the role of the Job Observation and Behavior Scale (JOBS) in promoting objective employee performance evaluations and summarizes the technical properties of the instrument. JOBS is designed to be sensitive to both the work performance and support needs of people who participate in supported employment. (Contains references.)…

The concept that classroom teachers have the knowledge, skill, and experience to validate research findings as related to specific objectives and the broader outcomes of education is discussed. Teaching effectiveness is enhanced by matching principles of learning (participation, readiness, comprehension, satisfaction, and retention) with…

The process proposed for the development and use of computer-based testing, including simulation and multiple-choice questions, as part of the National Board of Medical Examiners' certification sequence is outlined. Summary reports of first-phase pilot testing in six medical schools are appended. (MSE)

Describes and analyzes the social organization of testing as an interactional phenomenon. Provides examples of exchanges between clinician and child in a diagnostic testing situation. States these coorientational activities demonstrate that testing has an interactional basis. Explores the implications for research on bias in mental testing. (NL)

The validity and reliability of some measures of general education outcomes of college attendance are reviewed. Research to improve the accuracy of concordance estimates of mean gains is reported, based on analysis of 22 4-year longitudinal studies using instruments from the College Outcome Measures Program. (SLD)

Traditional measures such as Scholastic Aptitude Test scores and grade point averages are not adequate to predict academic achievement of lower-achieving students. Combining traditional predictors with nontraditional ones (including psychological and cognitive variables) produces a more effective predictor model. (IAH)

Developed paper-and-pencil and microcomputer versions of prototype occupational interest inventory for academically disadvantaged or functionally illiterate adults. Compared results obtained from 30 such adults on the United States Employment Service Interest Inventory and both versions of the prototype inventory. Results revealed acceptable…