Five indices are discussed that should logically discriminate between situations in which: (1) the linear equating method (LEM) adequately adjusts for difference between score distributions of two approximately parallel test forms; or (2) a method more complex than the linear equating method is needed. (RL)

The results of a school district's move to proficiency testing in mathematics are described and discussed. (MK)

The Revised Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children appears significantly to widen the gap between Black and White performance, increasing the likelihood of unjustified negative social and educational consequences. (Author/EB)

The Alternate Uses test was administered to 60 college students to measure originality; scores were based on subjective judgment, statistical infrequency, and random numbers. Findings indicated that either new scoring methods or statistical methods for controlling ideational fluency should be developed. (MH)

TAILOR, a computer program which implements an approach to tailored testing, was examined by Monte Carlo methods. The evaluation showed the procedure to be highly reliable and capable of reducing the required number of tests items by about one half. (Author/JKS)

A problem of considerable importance in certain educational settings is determining how many items to include on a mastery test. Applying ranking and selection procedures, a solution is given which includes as a special case all existing single-stage, non-Bayesian solutions based on a strong true-score model. (Author/JKS)

A rationale and practical guide to the psychological evaluation of deaf-blind children is provided. Few adequate tests exist. The Callier Azusa Scale, designed specifically for this population, is recommended as the best instrument. Some items on the Learning Accomplishment Profile are appropriate. Operationally stated skill checklists are also…

A structural equation model for attitude-behavior relationships is presented which conceptualizes attitude scales as congeneric measurements. The model represents a re-parameterization of an earlier one. (Author/RC)

To test differential effects of treating cognitive and emotionality response components of test anxiety, test-anxious college students (N=48) were assigned to one of four groups: an attentional treatment; a relaxation treatment; a combined attentional-relaxation treatment; and a waiting-list control group. Significant performance changes were not…

Richard Rothstein's booklet "What Do We Know About Declining (Or Rising) Student Achievement?" claims that anecdotes about past educational practices are unreliable and difficult to relate to today's schools. Curricula and tests change; so do student populations. There are no solid historical measures, including three well-known…

Examined the number and type of scoring errors made on Holland's Self-Directed Search-R (SDS-R). Participants were high school juniors and seniors (N=91). Results indicate that although some errors were made, the SDS-R was perceived as a useful career assessment tool. Implications are discussed. (Author/RJM)

Psychometric measures such as ability tests and personality and interest inventories have the potential to be misused with ethnic minorities, women, and people with disabilities. Applying them fairly, giving testees opportunities for preparation and practice, and interpreting scores in the context of feedback are recommended. (SK)

Evaluates a set of videotaped explanation- and procedure-based assessment activities that challenge high school students to apply scientific concepts to solving problems. Students frequently relied on description when asked for explanation and used revision to confirm their original prediction. The solution may be to relate instruction to context…

Discusses how the cult of examinations continues to affect both teachers and students in China, and concludes that any serious reform of Chinese education depends on thoroughly rethinking the role of examinations in learning. (SR)