The Detroit (Michigan) High School Proficiency Program emphasizes instruction as well as testing. (Author)

All beginning teachers in Georgia receive a three-year nonrenewable certificate. During the term of the certificate they must satisfactorily demonstrate 14 performance competencies in two consecutive assessments. (Author/MLF)

The article addresses 10 questions that should receive thoughtful consideration prior to initiating a competency testing program for handicapped students. (Author)

The discussion of minimum competency testing (MCT) for learning disabled students focuses on advantages and disadvantages, the need for test modifications, and the importance of coordinating the child's individualized education program with MCT considerations. (CL)

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) gathers information about national levels of education achievement that helps explain and interpret other research, policy efforts, and the phenomena of unanticipated changes in American education. (Author) Primary type of information provided by report: Program Description (Program Goals)…

The author considers the implications of minimum competency requirements for handicapped students, teachers of the handicapped, and mainstreaming. (SBH)

Compares the results of the first and second years of testing in the Florida minimum competency program to show that the program is working. (IRT)

This article, (presented by the Board of Directors of the International Reading Association) discusses a position statement adopted in April 1979, which states, in part, that no single measure or method of assessment of minimum competencies should ever be the sole criterion for graduation or promotion of a student. (DD)

Examines relationship between higher course requirements for high school graduation and adult employability. Findings suggest positive correlation. But also finds reductions in educational attainment, especially among blacks. (PKP)

A competency exam can help determine whether a training program has been effective only if it can pass the test of content validity. Seven steps for ensuring validity are developing learning objectives, outlining content, establishing format, constructing test items, evaluating validity, administering the exam, and analyzing results. (JOW)

Computerized Clinical Simulation Testing is an uncued, dynamic, interactive test that permits examinees to simulate the clinical decision-making skills used in the nursing management of client needs. It has the potential for helping boards of nursing to make more valid assessments about who is competent to practice nursing. (JOW)

Nurses' ability to think critically in clinical situations cannot be assessed by multiple-choice tests. Context-dependent test items that assess critical thinking are useful for orientation of new staff, competency testing, and clinical staff development. (SK)

Capstone is defined in the dictionary as "putting the final stone in place." Business Policy or Strategic Management is typically the capstone class in a business management degree program. As such, there are prerequisite requirements in terms of courses and specific knowledge. We have implemented a competency test for the capstone class and…

This study evaluated the effects of problem-based learning (PBL) in social work education. The participants were 132 second-year social work students who took the core courses of Social Work Theory and Practice and Skills Laboratory in the PBL mode. A 40-item scale was used to measure the students' perceptions of their social work knowledge,…

Special education teacher preparation programs typically require training in delivery of standardized achievement assessments. Appropriate administration of standardized assessments in eligibility and instructional planning process are critical. To insure production of valid assessments, pre-service teachers at Utah State University must deliver a…