Computer-Assisted Criterion-Referenced Testing, Working Paper 49.

Reported on is a study to develop a model for computer-assisted branched testing, measurement in which items are selected on the basis of previous responses and are thus tailored to the competencies of the examinee. The model was developed, implemented and evaluated in the context of an experimental school in Individually Prescribed Instruction (IPI). The sample consisted of seventy-five students in grades one through six at the Oakleaf Elementary School. On two separate occasions each student was given the branched computer test using a teletypewriter. After completing the branched test, students were required to take a paper and pencil test on all remaining objectives not included on the branched test. Thus, a measure of proficiency of every objective in the unit was recorded. Individual test profiles resulting from the study were used to ascertain the validity of the unit's structure. The results showed that criterion-referenced branched testing can be used effectively for all students in an IPI setting. Further, the measures yielded by such a procedure can be at least as valid and reliable as those for a conventional test. (RP)