The feasibility of generating multiple-choice test questions by transforming sentences from prose instructional materials was examined. A computer-based algorithm was used to analyze prose subject matter and to identify high-information words. Sentences containing selected words were then transformed into multiple-choice items by four writers who…

The precision and efficiency of a cognitive test constructed by three different methods of item analysis was compared, using the verbal aptitude subtest of the Florida Twelfth Grade Test. Classical item analysis, factor analysis and the Rasch logistic model were used in the construction of 15 and 30 item subtests and replicated for samples of 250,…

The objective of this study was to develop a highly reliable instrument for primary grade students which was relatively culture free and could accurately identify each child's dominant language. In addition, it should provide normative data regarding the child's fluency in his two most predominant languages. This test, known as the Test of…

This report is part of a general study of Reference Measures for Cognitive and Noncognitive Factors. The main activity being reported is the development of "factor-referenced" or "marker" tests for several recently identified cognitive factors. A secondary activity involves the study of possible relationships to factors already…

A long-term Leverhulme Research Project was established at Stirling University in 1970 to investigate the potential of microteaching as a major ingredient in the preparation of graduate high school teachers in Scotland. Members of the research team developed systematic observation schedules for each of the skills, in order to sharpen the focus of…

This study surveyed 53 master's level students in two tests and measurement classes to determine if and in what fashion they had been victimized by testing and evaluation. The purpose of this activity was to acquire personal data which could be used to both dramatize and formulate criteria for the construction of classroom tests. A majority of…

Since the accuracy and validity of occupational data may vary according to the rating scale format employed, the first phase of the research described in the report employed hypothetical job descriptions from which accurate criterion data could be generated. The second phase of the research required developing an occupational survey instrument…

The purpose of this study was to explore the usefulness of the Rasch test analysis model for providing consistent scale statistics between content-referenced and norm-referenced tests across school districts. A number of content-referenced tests were created to assess student performance relative to basic skills goals identified in reading and…

Because there is a need to measure performance of pupils with complex concepts, the Slide Sorting Task was developed to measure performance on complex concepts of freedom, non-freedom, justice, non-justice. The development of this instrument was presented along with the results of item analyses with several groups of subjects ranging from age…

The United States Training and Employment Service General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB), first published in 1947, has been included in a continuing program of research to validate the tests against success in many different occupations. The GATB consists of 12 tests which measure nine aptitudes: General Learning Ability; Verbal Aptitude; Numerical…

The United States Training and Employment Service General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB), first published in 1947, has been included in a continuing program of research to validate the tests against success in many different occupations. The GATB consists of 12 tests which measure nine aptitudes: General Learning Ability; Verbal Aptitude; Numerical…

Observer Rating Scales are a means of recording observed teaching behavior on nine dimensions: warmth, enthusiasm, clarity, variety, individualization, feedback, cognitive demand, freedom, and on-task activity. The trained observer rates the behavior on a scale from one to six representing points along a continuum. The positions are defined by…

Fifty-eight middle class children were tested over 6 years with 25 achievement, I.Q., and personality tests. Consistency of test results were evaluated by a variance comparison method and a simple signal detection model. Both methods lead to the conclusion that achievement tests are far better predictors than personality tests with I.Q. scales…

This study attempted to construct an instrument--the Poetry Methods Rating Scale (PMRS)--for assessing 10th-grade teachers' opinions of poetry teaching methods and to validate it by comparing the scores on the PMRS to the teachers' attitudes, personality, performance, and success in the classroom. The PMRS (a 38-item, seven category…

To determine whether a test to evaluate high school students' ability to understand and appreciate poetry could be constructed, two equivalent forms of a poetry test for grades 11 and 12 were developed using the recommendations of leading textbook authors, selected course content, anthologies, and literature and poetry tests. Aspects of poetry…