A basic technical framework is provided for the design and use of mastery tests. The Mastery Testing Project (MTP) prepared this framework using advanced mathematics supplemented with computer simulation based on real test data collected by the South Carolina Statewide Testing Program. The MTP focused on basic technical issues encountered in using…

This primer is an introduction to item response theory (also called item characteristic curve theory, or latent trait theory) as it is used most commonly--for scoring multiple choice achievement or aptitude tests. Written for the testing practitioner with minimum training in statistics and psychometrics, it presents and illustrates the basic…

This research report recounts the procedures, results, and recommendations of a research project in which more than 200 tenth-grade students in Florida were tested (1) to determine whether aptitude treatment interaction (ATI) effects on syntactic maturity and on knowledge of structural relationships occur after several months of instruction; (2)…

The Larry P. decision is criticized with reference to: (1) predictive tests and the standard curriculum; (2) the court's portrayal of special classes; (3) the effects of the 1972 decision on special class enrollment; (4) semantic confusion; and (5) the impact on Black children who experience academic difficulty. (Author/CTM)

This article addresses the question of why intelligence tests were put on trial. The courts had to weigh the validity of intelligence tests once California chose to rely upon intelligence tests to justify the large numbers of Black children in classes for the educable mentally retarded. (Author/CTM)

This textbook focuses on the development and education of talented children and adults. Part 1 considers who the gifted and talented are, in terms of personality aspects, intellectual competence, and specific talent in a domain. It presents a pyramidal framework of talent based on looking at adult talent and its precursors in childhood behavior.…

This international handbook provides a synthesis and critical review of the significant theory and research dealing with all aspects of giftedness. Each article is designed to reflect the state-of-the art from an international perspective, to offer a comprehensive review, and to comprise the forefront of knowledge and thought about the gifted. The…

This chapter examines the rationale for and means of achieving effective collaboration in planning and delivering services to gifted and talented students. First, the historical and philosophical background of current emphases on increased collaboration are reviewed. The necessity of collaboration with general education professionals is stressed…

This report examines the relationship between the federal government and research intensive universities (RIUs) in light of loss of public confidence, changes in the economy, and international challenges. In reviewing the health of the nation's research intensive universities and their relationship with the federal government the report looks at…

This guide for parents of gifted children in South Dakota provides information and help in the following areas: (1) identifying personal feelings about giftedness (a self-assessment instrument); (2) deciding who is gifted (including federal and South Dakota definitions); (3) characteristics of giftedness (myths versus facts); (4) the school's role…

Information was solicited through mass mailings to school districts concerning their definitions of gifted and talented, the instruments they use to identify gifted and talented students, and the underserved populations they seek to serve. This report is based on information from 542 files, representing approximately 10% of the mass mailing.…

The Minnesota Talented Youth Mathematics Project (MTYMP) aimed to accelerate the mathematics learning of extremely talented junior high school pupils in special fast-paced classes outside of the regular school program. During the 1976-77 school year, 65 pupils from Duluth, St. Paul, and Minneapolis, Minnesota earned credit in Algebra I and II.…

Designed to assist California policy and decision makers with planning to meet the future educational needs of limited-English speaking (LES) and non-English speaking (NES) students, this study was undertaken: (1) to describe and analyze the implementation of all areas of the legislatively required services to LES/NES children, and the structures…

This guide describes legislation, policy, and funding related to the education of students with special needs in Alberta (Canada) and outlines the province's program delivery requirements and expectations. After an introduction, the first section provides policy guidelines with excerpts from legislation concerning provincial policies and special…

This manual for Idaho school districts covers the identification, assessment, and educational needs of students (ages 5-18) who show intellectual promise, specific academic performance, leadership, and creativity or talent in the visual or performing arts. The manual also addresses the needs of underserved students who are gifted, including rural…