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5. Use Of Computer Technology In Behavioral Assessments, Thomas R. Kratochwill, Elizabeth J. Doll, W. Patrick Dickson

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

Major developments in the behavioral assessment field have occurred over the past decade (e.g., Barlow, 1981 ; Ciminero, Calhoun, & Adams , 1986; Haynes & Wilson, 1979; Mash & Terdal, 1988a). The use of computer technology by behavioral assessors has occurred, but this is a relatively recent development (Kratochwill, Doll, & Dickson, 1986; Romanczyk, 1986). Consider, for example, that behavioral assessment texts include little discussion of computer applications and many articles restrict discussion of behavioral assessment to observational measures (see Cone & Hawkins, 1977, for an exception). In psychology and education, issues of journals have been devoted to computer applications …

6. The Use Of The Computer In The Practice Of Industrial/ Organizational Psychology, Lyle F. Schoenfeldt, Jorge L. Mendoza

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

The rapid proliferation of computer technology, in the form of mainframe computers, networks of interconnected machines, and stand-alone personal computers, is having a profound effect on many areas of life. As a result of the spread of computer equipment to offices, homes, and educational institutions; the variety of software applications has grown at an unprecedented rate. With this as background, it should be no surprise that computers have assumed an increasing role in professional practice, including applications in providing services in the area of industrial and organizational psychology.

Industrial-organizational psychologists function in a variety of settings, but primarily provide human …

3. Assessment Of Val Id Ity In Computer-Based Test Interpretations, Kevin L. Moreland

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

The use of computers to interpret psychological tests is a "hot" topic, both within psychology and without. It is hot in the sense of giving rise to an increasing number of books and articles (e.g., Butcher, 1985, 1987; Eyde, 1987; Krug, 1987). It is hot in the sense of giving rise to an ever-increasing number of business enterprises (compare any recent APA Monitor with an issue from 1981). It is hot in the sense of capturing the attention of the news media (e.g., Petterson, 1983). And it is hot in the sense of giving rise to increasing controversy within psychology …

10. Guidelines For Computer Testing, Bert F. Green

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

Testing by computer is big business. Many companies are offering software enabling a psychologist to test a client by seating him or her at a computer terminal and pressing Return. The software presents the instructions on the screen, guides the test taker through some sample items to see if the instructions are understood, and then presents the test, automatically recording the responses. After one or more tests have been completed, the equipment scores the responses, and delivers test scores. But it doesn't stop there. It then continues by printing out a complete test interpretation in fairly well-constructed narrative prose. The …

Subject Index

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

Subject Index (4 pages)

A-Z

A

AAMD Adaptive Behavior Scale School Edition, 25
Acceptability of microcomputers, 145- 147
Access limitations, test security, 182- 183
Access to directions, 184-185
Adaptive Behavior Inventory for Children, 25
Adaptive testing, 6-7,15-16, 245-247
Adjective check list, 249
American Educational Research Association.Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing, 147,228-229, 240
American Psychological Association Ethical Principles of Psychologists, 147,230,257-259, 263-265
American Psychological Association General Guidelines for Providers of Psychological Services, 229, 257- 258, 263-265
American Psychological Association, Guidelines for Computer-based Tests and Interpretations, 14,43,147-148, 245-273
American Psychological Association Specialty Guidelines for the Delivery of Services, 229
American Psychological …

Title And Contents- The Computer And The Decision-Making Process, Jane Close Conoley, Terry B. Gutkin, Steven L. Wise

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

The Computer And The Decision-Making Process

Contents

Preface ix

1. Computer-Assisted Personality Test Interpretation: The Dawn of Discovery
Douglas N. Jackson

Some Preconditions for Valid Computer- Assisted Test Interpretation 1
The Dawn of Discovery 6
References 9

2. Psychodiagnostic Computing: From Interpretive Programs to Expert Systems 11
Marley W Watkins and Paul A. McDermott

Development of Administration and Interpretation Programs 11
Novel Administration and Interpretation Programs 14
Computerized Interpretation Systems 16
A Psychoeducational Diagnostic Model 19
A Computerized Psychoeducational Diagnostic System 23
Summary 36
References 37

3. Assessment of Validity in Computer-Based Test Interpretations
Kevin L. Moreland

Some History 44 …

Preface, Jane Close Conoley

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

This volume in the Buros-Nebraska Series on Testing and Measurement provides state-of-the-art contributions concerning the interface between computer technology and traditional psychometrics. The volume title, Computers and the Decision-Making Process, describes both reality and potential in a field that provides a dizzying array of promises and problems to be pursued and be solved.

This volume like the previous ones in our series reflects papers given at the annual Buros-Nebraska Symposium on Testing and Measurement and those especially commissioned for the book. Each of the contributors has a special expertise to examine the complex issues raised by the addition of …

4. The Validity Of Computerbased Test Interpretations Of The Mmpi, Lorraine D. Eyde, Dennis M. Kowal, Francis J. Fishburne Jr.

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

With advances in computer technology, computer-based test interpretations (CBTI), first developed in the early 1960s (Fowler, 1985), have proliferated (Eyde & Kowal, 1987). CBTIs have been developed and marketed for a variety of tests used in clinical, counseling, educational, and employment settings. The largest number of commercial CBTI systems are available for the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI; Krug, 1987), the most widely used inventory of its kind in the world, which has a continuously growing literature of more than 8,000 books and articles (Holden, 1986; Lanyon, 1984).

According to Harris:
CBTI refers to the automation of a set of …

9. Legal Issues In Computerized Psychological Testing, Donald N. Bersoff, Paul J. Hofer

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

A decade ago a scholar writing in a legal journal asked the question, "Can/Should Computers Replace Judges?" (D'Amato, 1977). The article explored problems involved in developing computer systems capable of making the difficult assessments and judgments required in judicial decision making. In discussing these problems, the author quoted extensively from Joseph Weizenbaum, who in a well-known critique of computerized psychotherapy, sagely asserted, "Since we do not now have any ways of making computers wise, we ought not now to give computers tasks that demand wisdom" (Weizenbaum, 1976). Nevertheless, the legal scholar concluded that any humanistic misgivings about computerized decision making …

Participation Versus Elimination In Middle School Sport Activities, Joseph Robert Cail

All Graduate Projects

Middle school students were surveyed to test two assumptions regarding fully participating versus being eliminated from sport activity and how elimination affects the choice ·of sport activity. The results showed that students would rather be participants than non-participants and that the possibility of elimination did not affect their choice of activity for most students.

Literacy Through Literature, Tammy Joy Cartwright

All Graduate Projects

Research on literature based and skills based reading programs was reviewed. Results showed that traditional basal programs, which are heavily skill oriented, do not meet the reading styles of all students. Integrated instruction which allows for a variety of learning activities can alleviate this problem. Research also indicated that the reading experience must be meaningful and motivating and that literature is an excellent means of providing this component. Integrated units were developed based upon this research evidence. Conclusions and recommendations are discussed.

An Assessment Of The Impact Of Resource Room Placement On Elementary Student Self-Esteem, Michael F. Hopkins

All Graduate Projects

An assessment, in the form of an interview, was conducted to measure the effects of resource room placement and full-time classroom integration on special education student self-esteem. Sixty students in the Wenatchee School District participated in the project during the 1990-1991 school year. The results of the project indicated that the placement of special education students in a full-time integration program does not insure a greater enhancement of their total self-concept; although it may be of benefit to certain areas in their self-esteem. The project included conclusions and recommendations.

An Exploration Of The Results Of Class Continuance From Kindergarten Through The First Grade, Georgann Marie Howie

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this study is the comparison of two different ways of grouping primary-level children and their teachers across grade levels. The two ways compared are the "class continuance" model, which is the maintenance of a structured same-age "family of learners" through the primary years, and the traditional practice of reassigning children and teachers to new classroom groups each year. Areas of comparison are the children's social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Nineteen children who remained with the same teacher during their kindergarten year and first grade were compared with 19 other children who were regrouped after finishing their kindergarten …

Cedar River Mini-School, Judy Anne Rene

All Graduate Projects

A mini-school was set up in Cedar River Elementary School in Maple Valley, Washington. The mini-school will keep the same students and teachers together for a three-year period of time. There will be a fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classroom, each with its own teacher. Research suggests that students in small schools perceive a closer, warmer relationship with their teachers, fellow students and other adults and a stronger connection with the school. This project presents a justification for and a description of the mini-school. The only conclusions reached come from the development of the mini-school, not in an evaluation of …

A Comparison Of Research On The Efficacy Of Workbooks/Worksheets And The Practices Of Primary Teachers, Carol Louise Sippola

All Graduate Projects

Primary grade teachers were surveyed regarding their beliefs and practices in the use of basal reader workbooks and worksheets. These beliefs and practices were compared to theory and research evidence on the use and efficacy of basal reader workbooks and worksheets. Eighty returned questionnaires revealed that participants found workbooks worksheets useful and believed in their contribution to reading achievement. However, only 17% of reading instructional time was spent completing workbooks and worksheets.

Integrated Instruction Procedural Manual, Cynthia S. Sloan

All Graduate Projects

Advantages and disadvantages of integrating Specific Learning Disabled and Seriously Behaviorally Disabled students into the regular classroom were studied. The integration process relied on collaboration between regular and special education staff. Results showed integrated instruction to be a viable option to the traditional "pull-out" model. The "pull-out" model should remain an instructional option for students who cannot function in an integrated setting. An Integrated Instruction Procedural Manual is included as a reference tool for developing collaborative education for this population.

1. Computer-Assisted Personal Ity Test Interpretation: The Dawn Of Discovery, Douglas N. Jackson

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

My aim in this chapter is to outline some of the substantive and psychometric bases on which we can build a science of assessment that takes advantage of the enormous potential inherent in the digital computer and in artificial intelligence. Some of these foundations are within the traditions of classical assessment. But others represent urgently needed areas of explication and research.

It is my view, in the tradition of Cronbach (1954), that developers of computer software for testing should listen to what psychometricians say, and, as well, psychometricians should be sensitive to new research ideas waiting to be solved that …

7. Implementation Decisions In Designing Computer-Based Instructional Testing Programs, John V. Noonan, Paul D. Sarvela

The Computer and the Decision-Making Process

From preschool to graduate school, computer-based instruction (CBI) has become an increasingly common event in today's education and training community. The interactive characteristics of CBI and its ability to simulate advanced concepts and operations, such as patient management simulations for medical students (Whiteside & Whiteside, 1987/88) or the maneuvering of a jet airplane (Conkright, 1982), make CBI an attractive new instructional delivery system for educators working in many different fields .

Because of these qualities , the computer has tremendous potential in educational and psychological measurement. For example, Millman & Arter (1984) describe how the computer aids in maintaining test-item …

Monitoring Standards Of Science Investigation Skill Attainment By Tongan Secondary Science Students, Fisi'ihoi Mone

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the science investigation skill attainment of Tongan Form 5 (16 years of age) General Science students. Benchmark statements were developed to describe the range of science investigation skills and standard of performance that should be expected of Tongan Form 5 General Science students. A written test of science process skills and a practical test of science apparatus skills, were developed to assess the level of attainment of science investigation skills by students who have completed Form 4 and Form 5 General Science in Tonga. The instruments were piloted twice in Western …

Increasing Reading Fluency In Students With Reading Difficulty, Kathryn Balabanis Peabody

All Graduate Projects

Four methods designed to increase reading fluency were employed in a primary level Special Education resource room. The methods were implemented in accordance with the theory and research regarding reading fluency. Each of the four methods effectively increased the students' ability to read fluently. However, the implementation of these methods varied in cost and time.

A Guide For Creating A School-Wide Advocacy Program, Theresa Dawn Chickering

All Graduate Projects

This project introduces a philosophy and rationale for creating and developing a positive adult influence on elementary school students. Research clearly illustrates the desirable impact a caring adult relationship can have on a child. The study addresses the importance of, development of, and reasons why a school should implement a structured student/adult focused plan. The roles of the advocate and child centered activities are explored.

Service Learning Across The Curriculum, Betty Fowler

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to develop handbooks that examine the value of service-learning as a legitimate educational practice. Based on an analyses of current literature, this study shows that participation in service-learning projects helps young people develop positive attitudes toward community participation that continue into their adult lives. The rationale and objectives of school-wide service-learning programs are discussed. Some existing community projects involving elementary and secondary students are described. Criteria for the development of service-learning programs are considered.

An Inservice Program For The Training Of Instructional Paraprofessionals And Classroom Teachers, Debra Renee Helm

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop an inservice program to increase the job related skills of paraprofessional classroom assistants and the human management and supervision skills of the classroom teachers with whom they work. To accomplish this purpose, the inservice training needs of class-size paraprofessionals and the classroom teachers were studied. An inservice training program was developed and implemented with twelve class-size paraprofessionals and twelve supervising teachers from selected elementary schools in the Auburn School District. The results of the program showed that the increased use of paraprofessionals in instructional roles creates significant need for inservice training for …

Yakima Alternative Education Program: Serving At-Risk Students In Grades 9-12, Earl Steven Lee

All Graduate Projects

The project describes and analyzes the Alternative School program of the Yakima (WA) School District. The project reviews the nine components that make up the alternative programs for the Yakima School District: (1) Stanton, (2) Outreach, (3) Project 107, (4) MAS, (5) The Place, (6) Detention Home, (7) Crossroads, (8) Key-OIC and (9) Stride. The project will identify the critical attributes of each program in an effort to clearly understand how they each promote the educational growth of high risk students in grades 9-12. Techniques, instructional materials and educational resources used by teachers and students will be discussed.

Exploring The Incidence And Predictability Problem Of Dyscalculia In A School-Based, Rural Population In A Rural State, Karen Kimberley Annis

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

The term learning disability denotes the inability to learn in keeping with one's potential when presented with the usual curriculum. Dyscalculia is learning disability manifested in the area of mathematics curriculum. Limited research exists in the area of dyscalculia in terms of both incidence and identification procedures. However, a fairly large number of school-aged children show deficits in this area. Despite the necessity for knowledge of mathematics, little emphasis is placed on the identification and remediation of mathematical learning disabilities. A prominent neurologist (Rosenberger, 1989) has hypothesized recently that as much as 10% of the population of school-aged children in …

Acer 1990-1991 Annual Report, Australian Council For Educational Research (Acer)

ACER Annual Reports

No abstract provided.

The Myth Of "Conventional Wisdom" On Changing Multiple-Choice Answers, Marshall A. Geiger

Accounting Faculty Publications

Business students are often warned not to change multiple-choice answers once an original selection has been made. This "conventional wisdom," that the first answer selected usually is the correct answer, is in contrast with the conclusions of research in the education and psychology fields. This study extends these earlier studies by using students in accounting principles I and principles II classes, and by examining whether the type of question (numeric or non-numeric) affects answer-changing behavior. On average, for every point lost roughly three points were gained by changing answers for both groups. Additionally, gender was found not to be a …

Neurochemical And Behavioral Effects Of Acute And Chronic Treatment With Apomorphine In Rats, Bruce A. Mattingly, James K. Rowlett, Michael T. Bardo

Faculty Research at Morehead State University

An article written by Bruce A. Mattingly and published by in the 1991 issue of Neuropharmacology, pages 191-197.

Swazi Students' Attitudes Towards Geography And Their Relationship To Home Background, Teacher, Previous Academic Achievement, Peer Group And Gender, David Manyatsi

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

This study examined attitudes of Swazi Secondary School Students towards geography and the association of those attitudes with home background, teacher, previous academic achievement, peer group and gender. Attitudes of 435 Swazi students toward geography were assessed in July 1990. The instrument for the measurement of attitudes toward geography was subdivided into eight factors: Interest in the subjects, perceived value of the subject; attitude to the subject teacher; class management; perception of own ability; attitude to other students; perceived teacher attitude to students; and attitude to homework. Home background was measured in terms of the parents and employment and educational …

Self-Reported Leadership Styles Of Higher Education Administrators In Venezuela As Related To Selected Demographic Variables, Julian Serafin Martin

Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to identify the self-reported leadership style of higher education administrators in Venezuela as related to six selected demographic variables: age, sex, highest academic degree earned, years of experience in either colleges or technological institutes, marital status, and union experiences. The subjects of the study were 58 directive council members of three colleges and five technological institutes in Venezuela. Eighty-three percent of all potential subjects participated in the study. Two instruments--the LBA-II-Self (Spanish version produced by Blanchard Training and Development, Inc.) and a demographic data form--were used to gather data.

The validity and reliability of …