Indicates that national statistics show declining numbers of unskilled jobs and large numbers of semiliterate and illiterate high school graduates; argues that minimum competency requirements can benefit both individuals and society. Observes that recent judicial decisions have usurped the right to set educational policy, which constitutionally…

Concludes that valid reading tests are needed for adults and should be designed differently than tests for academic or school-related reading. (AEA)

Self-assessment is one answer to the problems that arise when vocational placement tests are not used. Advantages of this system are (1) students obtain evaluation without the trauma of entrance examinations; (2) students are aware of needed competencies; and (3) students will seek courses to prepare them for success. (JOW)

Argues that educators and researchers should become more active in making the decisions that affect education, such as minimum competency testing. (FL)

Satirizes the teaching of basic skills in isolation and the placing of test results above true learning. (RL)

The author outlines current federal interest in the competency testing movement, explaining the federal role as supportive, with no plans for a national test, but with concern for equal educational opportunity. Federal activities are described, including the new NIE Office of Testing, Assessment, and Evaluation. (SJL)

The National Institute of Education's hearings on minimum competency testing sought to educate the public about both sides of the issue. This article summarizes the ground rules for the hearings and the five points of inquiry debated. (WD)

The fundamental Reading Competencies Test assesses proficiency with respect to well-defined functional reading skills of high school students. Validity and reliability data for the test are presented. (Author/JKS)

Traces the history of minimum competency testing in the United States from 1890 to the present. (FL)

Reports on the positive outcomes that resulted from implementing a competency program in writing at a high school. (RL)

Examines three standardized college composition tests in terms of the context of the assignment and the impact of social influences and the testing situation. Stresses inadequacies inherent to standardized composition testing. (HTH)

Among findings of the state surveys were that most states were still in the process of formulating policies concerning minimum competency testing (at the time of the survey) and that either no policy had been established or existing special education programs were expected to meet the need of remedial measures for handicapped students who do not…

The study examines Saskatchewan high school students' achievement of selected mathematical competencies. Results indicate statistically significant differences in achievement among some grades, mathematics programs, school enrollment sizes, and between the sexes. Educational implications are outlined. (MK)

This is the first half of a two-part interview with Benjamin S. Bloom in which he speaks out on the place of mastery learning in the future of our educational system. (KC)

The text of a conversation with a Florida special education administrator explores such aspects as the skills that are being tested, how standards were derived, the effects of testing on curricula, special diplomas, and the improvement in scores noted in the second year of the testing. (DLS)