This paper focuses on the questions which arise as test practitioners monitor score scales derived from latent trait theory. Large scale assessment programs are dynamic and constantly challenge the assumptions and limits of latent trait models. Even though testing programs evolve, test scores must remain reliable indicators of progress.…

This paper presents results of a study examining the relationship between the American Board of Surgery's In-Training Examination and its Qualifying Examination. 1982 Test scores on both examinations of 764 candidates in their fifth year of training as Chief Residents were analyzed. Descriptive statistics, correlations, and standard errors were…

Designed to contribute to the growing effort to teach critical thinking skills, this guide provides teachers with (1) a simple, usable set of definitions for recall, analysis, comparison, inference, and evaluation; (2) brief explanations of three common forms of classroom assessment (oral questioning during instruction, paper and pencil objective…

This memorandum discusses a number of recommendations proposed for changes in the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP). The Higher Level Assessment Study Group discussed ways to further MEAP testing goals: expand testing into additional subject areas, for every pupil, on a cyclical basis; set higher standards encouraging student…

Intended for students taking the Grade 12 Diploma Examination in English 30 in Alberta, Canada, this test contains (1) general instructions, (2) two minor assignments consisting of literature readings about which the student must write a personal response, and (3) a major assignment requiring students to show how the authors they studied in senior…

Intended for students taking the Grade 12 Diploma Examinations in English 33 in Alberta, Canada, this test on writing contains general instructions and three sections: (1) a personal response to an aspect of literature, (2) functional writing requiring a written response within a given situation or context, and (3) a response to visual…

Designed to assist school jurisdictions in interpreting their achievement test results, this report describes the achievement testing program in Alberta, Canada, and indicates the conditions for student exemption from testing. It explains the Grade 3 English Language Arts Achievement Test design and development, gives a description of the test…

A study compared child care centers determined to be of high quality and low quality along three established indicators of quality: good adult/child ratio, caregiver continuity, and caregiver training in child development. The centers were all community centers who enrolled full tuition parents. Eighty-nine families with children aged 18, 24, 30,…

A review of the community-controlled school on the Jackhead Indian Reserve evaluated the existing educational program for preschool through grade nine and set guidelines for the community to follow in improving the school. The study found not one of the 82 students achieving at grade level; 80% average attendance; 47% of the students had failed…

Intended for students taking the Grade 12 Diploma Examination in English 30 in Alberta, Canada, this test contains (1) general instructions; (2) a minor assignment consisting of a literature reading to which the students must write a personal response; and (3) a major assignment requiring students to show how the authors they studied in senior…

Described are the implemented and attained mathematics curriculum of 18 countries that participated in the Second International Mathematics Study. Differences and similarities between countries, are illustrated through analysis of the data, and data are presented to indicate shortcomings in the content and outcomes of education within certain…

A qualitative case study involving five educational institutions assessed the use of competency testing as a prerequisite for high school graduation, criterion for admission into college, criterion for teacher certification, and statewide assessment tool. Focus was on persons and processes involved in setting educational standards associated with…

In order to ensure the continued quality of education in the University of Wisconsin System (UWS), a study of its future was undertaken. A crucial priority for the future of this system is to maintain the high quality for which it has gained national reputation. Following a fiscal review, the five sections of the report focus on: (1) educational…

This ERIC Digest on teaching about the Bill of Rights in the schools examines the status, the deficiencies, and means to improve citizenship education. Currently, the Bill of Rights is taught at least four times during the elementary and secondary grades. Constitutional rights and liberties are stressed in K-12 curriculum goals for social studies…

This report proposes a curriculum model for education of students in the age group of 10 to 14 years in Scotland. It also proposes a policy of autonomy within guidelines so that secondary schools and their associated primary schools can develop new partnerships for collaborative planning of curriculum, pupil care, learning support, assessment,…