Handbook On Testing

The Handbook on Testing highlights major work in educational, psychological, technical, and occupational testing in public and private sectors. Theoretical issues in measurement are discussed. Standards for tests and testing professionals are described. In addition, a range of test environments, testing programs, and groups of examinees are included. A variety of suggestions for improving the use of tests for selection and classification are given. Examples of programs linking testing with training are also provided, and the use of tests to promote learning is described.

Researchers in the field of testing have witnessed recent significant changes in test development and test administration procedures. The motivation for such changes lies in revised conceptions of intelligence as well as modifications in testing technologies. The Handbook on Testing is the largest treatise in testing and contains among the most important testing work, including new undertakings on a range of test administration methods, types of abilities, and measures taken from tests. Issues of test theory and standards are discussed. New work in intelligence testing is also included. In addition, the mechanisms and use of dynamic assessment and learning tests are considered. Several large-scale testing programs are reviewed, including predictor and criterion development work in the military, private sector employment testing, and testing for admission to medical school. The link between assessment and instruction is highlighted in several chapters, including coverage in special education testing.

RONNA F. DILLON is Professor of Educational Psychology and Psychology at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. She is the author of more than 200 articles and book chapters and eight books which include Instruction (Praeger, 1991) and Testing (Praeger, 1989).