One of the important nutrients during pregnancy is vitamin A or related compounds called retinoids. Although it is well-known that vitamin A deficiency may be detrimental to foetal development, overdosage of retinoids might cause developmental defects, particularly affecting the central nervous system development of the foetus, causing hindbrain…

This study focused on the robustness of unidimensional item response theory (UIRT) models in computerized classification testing against violation of the unidimensionality assumption. The study addressed whether UIRT models remain acceptable under various testing conditions and dimensionality strengths. Monte Carlo simulation techniques were used…

Educational test theory consists of statistical and methodological tools to support inferences about examinees' knowledge, skills, and accomplishments. The evolution of test theory has been shaped by the nature of users' inferences which, until recently, have been framed almost exclusively in terms of trait and behavioral psychology. Progress in…

Since 1915, the movement to test reading ability has grown in importance and pervasiveness. Testing is relied on to offer quantitative information, to determine the usefulness of instructional approaches, and to help ensure accountability. The demand for tests arose during the period from 1990 to 1992 when school became compulsory and educators…

Fifty-six children between the ages of two years four months and four years ten months were given tests relating to the acquisition of both 'specific' and 'generic' concepts. (Author)

Article investigated two new, parallel, multiple-choice group tests of reasoning, suitable for literate subjects from 10 years to adulthood. (Author/RK)

A report of a special panel, appointed by the Board of Scientific Affairs of the American Psychological Association, which investigates the use of ability tests with disadvantaged students in the schools, focusing especially on intelligence tests. Various sections present a discussion of the theoretical rationale of human abilities underlying the…

Results of a study of the costs of examinations in further higher education (FHE) in England and Wales are presented, based on a survey of 12 FHE institutions, 6 local education authorities (LEAs), and a number of examining bodies. After a brief review of the system of assessment in England and Wales, attention is directed to the range of fees…

The term "coaching" applies to a variety of types of test preparation programs which vary in length, instructional method, and content. Most research on the effectiveness of coaching has examined the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), a measure of academic abilities used to predict college performance. This ERIC Digest reviews studies of…

Transformations or equating of raw test scores on two or more forms of the same test are made interchangeable by empirical procedures deriving the standard error of an equipercentile equating for four different situations. Some numerical results are checked by Monte Carlo methods. Numerical standard errors are computed for two sets of real data.…

Measurement terms used in Title I evaluation are contained in this glossary. Several types of measurement techniques are identified and defined. Other measurement terms which are defined include those relating to validity, reliability, statistical analysis, test interpretation, and program effectiveness. (DWH)

Author focused on the basic principles that should inform educational theory and methodology. (Author/RK)

Presents a method of testing a class that is designed to reveal the level of thinking of the individual student in the context of the science instruction that he is receiving. (JR)

This paper is directed to those who are undertaking evaluation of a bilingual program for the first time or who have already struggled with the mysteries of such an undertaking. Emphasis is given to the reporting requirements of the various federal and state funding agencies. The bilingual-bicultural program structure is defined so the evaluator…