This study, third in a series using data from the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS:88), demonstrates the usefulness of multidimensional representation of mathematics achievement as it extends analyses through grade 12. Findings support a distinction between mathematical reasoning and knowledge for two of the three test forms.…

Proposes a theoretical framework for designing online-situated assessment tools for multimedia instructional systems. Uses a graphic method based on ecological psychology to monitor student performance through a learning activity. Explores the method's feasibility in case studies describing instructional systems teaching critical-thinking and…

Discusses issues in implementing and evaluating an interdisciplinary curriculum. An integrated approach is time-intensive and difficult to evaluate, and requires changing teacher practices and beliefs. (Contains seven references.) (LMI)

Tests cognitive assessment of 180 students enrolled in a cornerstone course in communication theory. Finds that a profile of factors that influence cognitive assessment scores can be developed. Demonstrates how assessment may be used to empower both faculty and students by offering pedagogical and administrative strategies that enhance student…

A series of standardized tasks was developed using the same constructs as operationalized in a state's large-scale assessment program. Student performance (n=437) was then analyzed. In reading and math, teachers (n=131) were successfully trained to administer the tasks and judge performance, providing a system with instructional and evaluative…

All college faculty have the responsibility of understanding whatever professional assessments their students must undertake to enter a profession. The results of these and other student evaluations can show faculty how to improve their own teaching by aligning curriculum and instruction with professional standards and ensuring that students can…

Assessed the quality of different types of early childhood care and education programs in Chile according to international standards. Recorded structural and process characteristics observed in the classrooms. Found that Chilean preschool programs showed a minimum level of quality, with a high proportion of centers in the inadequate range.…

This article examines the undesirable social and vocational ramifications associated with the use of a single high-stakes test to assess the academic proficiencies of students with disabilities and the present discriminatory nature of the required performance on one standardized exam. Alternative assessments are discussed. (Contains references.)…

Undergraduate study programs in the United States, Great Britain, and Europe are compared. Assessment strategies are offered for use in addressing demands for evidence of accountability and concerns about quality facing Western universities. These countries should jointly study the peer review process as an assessment tool. (TJH)

Described is the evaluation of the Master of Environmental Science program at Monash University (Australia). The design of the evaluation is discussed, and the use of multiple sources of data and an innovative style are highlighted. (Author/CW)

Surveys the technical characteristics of 22 industry-sponsored instructional programs in economics, and identifies the objectives of economics education. Contends that the 22 concepts identified by the Joint Council on Economic Education need to be translated into a framework of learning objectives. Concludes that industry sponsored programs could…

The National Assessment of Educational Progress, a testing program which gathers data on knowledge and skills of American students to indicate educational achievement, may also be used to do comparisons among states. However, it cannot provide accountability oriented data; such use may erode its value as an indicator of educational achievement.…

A model for evaluation of complex educational settings is proposed. The model covers measurement, judgment, and decision making and the related criteria of reliability, validity, and utility. A second proposed model depicts the provincial educational setting. The development of a provincial item bank illustrates the application of the models. (TJH)

Five papers concerning standardized testing are presented. Topics addressed include measures for distinct aspects of human intelligence (multiple intelligences), the use of portfolio assessments with regard to instructional planning, practical reasoning, cognitive and conative constructs, and cognition and assessment practices. (TJH)

Reports on an evaluation of a nationally funded in-service plan known as TRIST (Technical and Vocational Education Initiative-TVEI-Related In-Service Training) for secondary and postsecondary education teachers in the United Kingdom. Considers the influence of a variety of central government policies upon the educational climate existing in three…