Investigated the effects of relaxation and imagery training on standardized test scores of 1,068 fifth graders. Results indicated the technique helped students minimize the effects of stress and anxiety and score higher on standardized tests. (JAC)

Using logarithmic and statistical data, this study analyzes teacher quality as a determinant of student performance on standardized tests. The most startling finding: a 1 percent increase in teacher competency, as measured by standardiazed test scores, is accompanied by a 5 percent decline in student failure rate on high school competency…

Crownhill Elementary School in Bremerton, Washington, has succeeding in boosting reading and math scores of its students and building their self-esteem as it doubled in size. Teachers participate in budget and hiring decisions and share ideas. Some of the projects and programs are briefly described. (MT)

Observes the increasing use of class test scores for rating teachers and reviews arguments against this practice. Cites research pointing to a variety of influences on standardized test scores other than teacher performance. Concludes that teacher evaluation must incorporate a variety of measures. (KH)

The article examines the legal problems associated with standardized testing instruments and their use and the legal imperative for using curriculum-based measures in special education evaluation systems. (Author/CL)

Describes a test-taking course designed to prepare seventh-grade students for the SAT.

Examines trends in standardized test scores since the 1960's. Reviews several factors that must be considered when assessing the significance of these trends, including changes in test-taking populations. Challenges common assertions concerning the extent and nature of test score declines and of educational quality prior to the decline. (PGD)

Principals should urge teachers to teach students the five basic principles of test taking. This can improve student scores on standardized tests. (MD)

This work presents a methodological critique and secondary analysis of a large scale societal experiment, performed by Kellaghan, that studied the educational and psychological effects of the introduction of standardized achievement/ability testing in elementary schools in Ireland. (Author/PN)

A study involving 157 fourth graders revealed that the Adaptive Behavior Inventory for Children discriminated between adaptive and maladaptive behaviors among retarded and nonretarded Ss, while the Vineland produced significantly different scores for Anglos and Blacks. The Behavior Rating Profile did not discriminate between behavior of retarded…

Records of 63 medical school graduates were examined for predictors of achievement on in-training examinations in anesthesia and orthopedic surgery. The previous academic records were found to contain little to predict examination results, and the correlation between college nonscience subjects and exam performance was negative. (Author/MSE)

The Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children's (K-ABC) systematic effort to achieve fairness for minorities and exceptional children in the assessment process is appealing, but potential for abuse is real. As the K-ABC has reduced the black/white IQ discrepancy, it should have a positive and stimulating effect on this persistent issue in…

The faculty at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine has developed an explanation of repeated medical student failures on Part I of the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) examination. They see the failures as the result of incomplete development of reasoning skills. Author/MLW)

Though rating scales represent a cost-effective way of obtaining data on child behavior, there are numerous unresolved issues pertaining to their use. This article focuses upon a few considerations regarding the instruments themselves and the informants who provide the ratings. Recommendation for future work on scale development are made.…

In this study posttest performance resulting from total feedback, partial feedback, and no feedback in a multiple-choice test was compared. (RC)