This analysis of the stimulus-response characteristics of reading comprehension tests was undertaken in order to determine the factors which are generally measured in the standardized tests of reading comprehension. It was assumed that such an analysis might provide a clearer notion than presently exists in the educational literature as to what…

Comparable scores represent equal rank in a given population-they imply nothing concerning what is being measured. Equivalent scores represent similarity of what is being measured -- the more complete the equivalence, the greater the likeness of measurement. The test user would do well to keep these distinctions in mind; to avoid being confused…

Cites eight documents in the ERIC system regarding problems in standardized testing and possible solutions. (DD)

Argues against the use of standardized tests in assessing children's social competence and maintains that the observation of certain categories of children's behavior may provide the basis for an alternative method of assessment. Nine criteria for assessment are suggested. (CM)

Suggests that educational testing is not only big business in this country, it is also a big game. The "Testing Game", as it is called, refers to an ongoing series of transitions which progress to well-defined, predictable outcomes. (Author/AM)

Performance on subtests of the California Achievement Tests was compared for students in grades one, two, four, and five who had been assigned to one of two groups, one of which had received formal instruction in test-taking skills. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

The process by which a school might use a parameter estimation procedure (such as LOGIST) based on item response theory (IRT) to build a "customized test" from an "on shelf" standardized achievement test was examined. The Iowa Tests of Educational Development was used. Results indicate that estimates from standardized versus…

The author reviews his criticisms of standardized tests and suggests an alternative five-point plan for assessment that includes frequent testing in the child's classroom by a familiar examiner. (CL)

The Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement (K-TEA) is described in terms of training, subtest description and evaluation, and technical information. (CL)

Lists college board preparation programs available for Apple II microcomputers. Each entry includes title, source, subject area addressed, special features, and current cost. Programs help students prepare for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), American College Testing Program (ACT), Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT), and the Graduate…

This article presents an annotated bibliography of journal articles and documents which discuss both theoretical and research findings related to issues surrounding the concept of overlap between standardized tests and the content, curricular, and instructional domains of teaching and learning. (MT)

The author describes the advantages of the Talent Search Identification Model for gifted student identification. The model, widely used, uses standardized achievement tests to identify junior high students. Recommendations are offered for students scoring within specified ranges on the Scholastic Aptitude Test. (CL)

This study expands and validates previous research that found a statistical correlation between the amount of daylight in elementary school classrooms and the performance of students on standardized math and reading tests. The researchers reanalyzed the 19971998 school year student performance data from the Capistrano Unified School District…

Three nonprofit organizations support a dialogue on standards-based educational reform. North Central Regional Education Laboratory, Mid-Continent Research for Education and Learning, and the Berkana Institute offer Web sites and a toll-free number to those who want to comment on this type of reform. In surveys, a clear majority of parents feel…