Linda-Sanders 3-6

Linda-Sanders3-6
After reading the "Is this a Trick Question" post I learned so much. And then reading chapters 3-6 in Sanders I gained even more insight into testing. Chapter 3 begins with defining the different kinds of tests, norm-referenced and criterion-referenced, then it goes on to give important guidelines to designing a good test. I found this very insightful. I did know that making tests was challenging, but now realize the extend to which a teacher must go to assure quality testing. I liked how in the chapter there were examples to try and it was a good way for me to see if I was understanding the information along the way. The suggested resources I'm sure will be useful-Tests in Print and Mental Measurements Yearbooks (http://www.ets.org).
The way the chapter breaks down all the types of tests is very useful. I know I will be refering to this book often in the future.
I had no idea there were so many differnet types of validity. The case study helped to see all the information applied.
In chapter 4 I related to the statement, "How can you summarize the information you collect so that the message from your data is accurate and clear?". I have found that many times when dealing with data one can then look at the information and not be really be clear on what it is telling you. I like again how the chapter gives applicable examples and suggestions for doing it the right way. In chapter 5 the suggestion to discuss the findings with the person most directly affected first to avoid problems is a good one. I know that any time there is an evaluation, of people or of general information, people can become defensive quickly.
As I was reading all of these chapters I keep coming back to my own school. We have recentlybeen trying to get a bond issue based, and the information collection, the politics, the finaces, etc.-all of the information took quite a bit of organizing and information collecting. It had been a stressful couple of years for those in favor of and those oppposed to the bond. Debates got pretty heated to say the least. But back to the chapters, I can see that the amount of time needed to create questionaires, evaluations, compiling data, etc., it all takes a great deal of dedication. Even with the simplest of tests, it has to be done correctly taking into consideration all of the suggestions in these chapters. Like I said I'll be refering to this book in the future to write the best tests I can.