Evaluation of a model of the dynamics of cumulative achievement, used to develop an instrument for predicting scholastic achievement, suggests that, while the instrumentation needs to be improved, reliability of the model-based approach warrants further work. (MJB)

Two statistical characteristics of the Matching Familiar Figures test which produce methodological problems in reflection-impulsivity research are discussed. (BRT)

Descriptions are presented of two related probabilistic models that can be used for making classification decisions with respect to mastery of specific concepts or skills. Determination of cutoff scores, minimal number of items necessary, and the assessment of the quality of tests provided by the model are discussed. (Author/JKS)

Inmates were administered the revised Activity Preference Questionnaire, the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16 PF), the Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI), the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), the Sensation-Seeking Scale, and the Personal Opinion Study. Inspection of correlations and factors associated with indices…

Adaptive Behavior Scale (ABS) ratings by one rater completing the scale were compared with composite ratings by a group of raters, each of whom completed only a portion were compared for 40 retarded persons (ages 10-56). Composite ratings tended to be significantly higher than individual ratings. (Author/DB)

This study examined the predictive validity of the Developing Cognitive Abilities Test (DCAT), a test similar in form to traditional intelligence tests but developed along a format that included both a cognitive taxonomy and content areas. Students in fourth through twelfth grades were administered the DCAT and the Achievement Series Test.…

Trial administrations of the FITLOC, multidimensional scales for the measurement of locus of control of reinforcement for physical fitness behavior, provided preliminary evidence for the scales' reliability and validity. (Author/CB)

Administered seven-item Relationship Assessment Scale to 125 subjects "in love." Scale correlated significantly with measures of love, sexual attitudes, self-disclosure, commitment, and investment in relationship. Administered scale to 57 couples in ongoing relationships. Results correlated with relevant relationship measures; revealed…

This National Council on Measurement in Education (NCME) module is designed to help teachers understand test reliability requirements. Focus is on the reliability of scores from teacher-made achievement tests used for interpreting norm-referenced scores. Reliability, factors affecting scores, reliability estimation methods, reliability's relation…

Examined records of 170 learning-disabled students to determine stability of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) test scores. WISC-R was readministered three years later to 150 subjects. Stability coefficients were .72, .70, and .74 for Verbal, Performance, and Full Scale Intelligence Quotient scores. Results suggest WISC-R…

Psychometric issues arising from the use of minimum competency tests in local option states were examined in seven school districts. The effect of variability in reliability and difficulty level of subtests on the accuracy of decisions based on such tests is questioned, particularly as they affect mildly handicapped and marginal students.…

Examination of factors derived from responses to the Facts on Aging Quiz were found to be different from those determined intuitively by Facts on Aging Quiz's author Palmore. Found reliability and validity of scale to be moderate and recommended Facts on Aging Quiz be used for only educational and not research purposes. (Author/ABL)

Investigated sex differences in the factor structure of the Student Developmental Task Inventory, second edition, (STDI-2) in a sample of 319 college students attending fall orientation. Factor analysis showed substantive differences with only minor overlaps in the factors. Questions the validity and reliability of the SDTI-2 and appropriatness of…

Study of the reliability of a modified picture identification instrument for measuring the health knowledge of preschool children (N=311) indicated that it was reliable for three- to five-year-olds in assessing comprehensive health knowledge. (Author/CB)

Administered measures of generalized communication apprehension (CA), communication regarding the dying (CA-Dying), and death anxiety to 29 persons in a hospice volunteer training program and 30 persons on a hospice mailing list. Results suggest the CA-Dying scale possesses adequate reliability and validity to serve as useful index of difficulties…