A discriminant analysis of the relationships between 335 Florida students' first and second grade scores on the reading subtests of the Metropolitan Achievement Test (MAT) and their third grade scores on the Florida Statewide Assessment Test (FSAT) was undertaken, using race, sex, and intelligence as independent variables. Three null hypotheses…

After a brief discussion of the issues prompting concern with competency-based education (CBE) and an explanation of what it is and why it is so popular, this document goes on to discuss action Wisconsin and other states have taken to implement CBE. Very brief accounts are given of the minimal competency-type programs implemented in Sparta,…

An historical and philosophical perspective on the setting of standards for criterion-referenced testing is presented. The author suggests that performance standards are more symbolic than substantive. (JKS)

Prescriptive instruction should be developed for all students, ensuring that each will have the opportunity to achieve to the maximum of his or her ability. (Author/MLF)

Argues that minimal competency tests will promote reading literacy. (MKM)

The potential of minimum competency testing cannot be realized unless school districts engage in the complex processes of competency-based program development. (Author/MLF)

Discusses the costs of developing, administering, and regulating state competency tests as well as of the compensatory programs that the tests will make necessary, and then suggests five ways of reducing these costs. (IRT)

Since 1960 Denver has operated a testing program designed to assure that high school graduates possess minimum competence in four basic areas--arithmetic, spelling, grammar, and reading comprehension. (Author/IRT)

A national proficiency testing program would weaken local decision-making capacity, resegregate the schools, and further the negative effects of nonpromotion of students. Such a program would also have several negative effects on the curriculum. (Author/IRT)

Minimum competency testing will help restore concern for cognitive development to the highest priority, and motivate teachers to teach more purposefully and students to work harder. A discussion of the kinds of tests to be used is included. (Author/IRT)

This study investigated the relationships among scholastic aptitude, achievement, and performance on a state-mandated teacher competency test for secondary school teachers. The sample consisted of 215 secondary teacher candidates who had completed the Oklahoma Curriculum Proficiency Examination between 1982 and 1985. Results are discussed.…

Legal decisions from the past 20 years that have been influential on the direction of the competency-based and teacher certification testing movement are described. Suggestions for test developers are made to guide them in developing tests that are fair and that comply with legal precedents. (JL)

Questions are addressed to the British Secretary of State for Education concerning: conflicts between the national curriculum and testing program and abilities of the disabled, the potential for the increased segregation of emotionally or learning disabled children, and the pattern of special education services 10 years from now. (DB)

The performance of various ethnic groups on teacher competency tests in several states are reported. The data indicate that disproportionate numbers of minority candidates are being screened out of teaching. Implications for the national teaching force are examined. (Author/MT)

The Florida legislature recently mandated several testing programs to improve the quality of teacher education entrants, students, and graduates. These requirements and their impact on teacher education in Florida are discussed. (MT)