Articles tagged with Educational Testing
A new school-evaluation method called value-added has been found not to affect housing prices, according to research by economists at Michigan State University and Cornell University. The public release of such data did not influence property values in Los Angeles, contradicting previous research that linked test scores to housing pric...
Researchers have developed a new risk assessment scoring system to stratify risk for advanced neoplasia in asymptomatic adults. The study found that patients with lower risk scores may be suitable for less invasive tests such as sigmoidoscopies or occult blood tests.
A self-directed, iterative learning framework dramatically improved first-year physics students' critical thinking skills, according to new University of British Columbia research. Students were four times more likely to identify and explain limitations in scientific models using their data.
A Drexel University study found that a high-quality appetizer can decrease the appreciation for a subsequent main dish. The researchers discovered this effect by comparing subjects' hedonic responses to pasta aglio e olio after consuming either a good or mediocre bruschetta appetizer.
A nationwide analysis of over 8,000 children conceived through ART found no difference in educational test scores compared to spontaneously conceived children. The study suggests that ART pregnancies, particularly twins, do not have a negative impact on academic performance in adolescence.
Applicants with disabilities who took MCAT with extra time had no significant difference in medical school admission rates but lower USMLE Step exam pass rates and graduation rates. The redesigned MCAT increases testing time, which may impact predictive scores.
A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that anticipating a potential ethical dilemma can lead to improved ethical behavior. Participants who identified similar past incidents and anticipated temptation were more likely to behave honestly than those who didn't.
A new smartphone-based system called Peek has been shown to be as accurate as traditional charts in testing visual acuity. The app, designed by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, uses a unique piece of hardware and software to test eyesight easily and affordably in community settings.
Researchers at USC have developed a portable device to measure a tumor's squishiness, which may help personalize cancer care. The device uses fiber optics and can accurately quantify the Young's modulus of various materials without damaging them.
A study by University of Texas at Austin economists found that banning cellphones in schools increases student test scores, with a 6.41% improvement in overall performance. Low-achieving and special education needs students saw the greatest gains, with test score improvements of 14.23% and 10-12%, respectively.
A study found that kindergartners sharing iPads in class scored higher on achievement tests compared to those with individual iPads or no technology. The collaborative learning environment made a significant difference in student outcomes.
The article features five physics demonstrations that showcase the importance of experimentation in the science classroom. The experiments, described by Neil Downie, a Royal Academy of Engineering visiting professor, allow students to get creative while learning fundamental physics principles.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed an adaptive control technology that can override failures and maintain safe handling in aircraft. The L1 system has been tested on a manned aircraft and shown consistent performance across varying flight conditions, making it a promising solution for improving air travel safety.
The use of the 21-gene recurrence score assay increased from 1.1% to 10.1% among Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with breast cancer between 2005 and 2009. The majority of tests were performed in patients with intermediate-risk disease, and rates of chemotherapy remained similar during this period.
Research from the University of Warwick suggests delaying school entry for pre-term and full-term children may lead to poorer academic performance as they get older. The study found that missing one year of learning opportunities was associated with poorer average performance in standardised tests at 8 years of age.
Researchers developed a new sensor to detect ambient mercury levels in the atmosphere, providing a more accurate method for measuring global human exposure. The sequential two-photon laser-induced fluorescence (2P-LIF) instrument detects mercury at parts-per-quadrillion sensitivity, outperforming existing methods.
A nationwide study suggests that frequent fast-food consumption in fifth grade is associated with lower reading, math, and science test scores by eighth grade. Researchers controlled for various factors, including exercise, TV watching, family socioeconomic status, and neighborhood characteristics, to find this link.
The Seattle Singing Accuracy Protocol (SSAP) measures how well people handle the translation from listening to singing. The program assesses individual singers' ability to match specific tones and melodies, providing a tool for early music education programs and researchers studying musical ability.
A new OSU study found that children with autism are more sedentary than their typically-developing peers, averaging 50 minutes less a day of moderate physical activity and 70 minutes more each day sitting. Despite this, they perform similarly on fitness assessments such as body mass index, aerobic fitness levels, and flexibility.
Researchers found that teenage girls who skipped school or failed tests were more likely to engage in vaginal sex and less likely to use condoms. The study also showed a link between academic events and emotional experiences in romantic relationships.
A new study found that different fish species respond uniquely to noise pollution, with three-spined sticklebacks reacting faster to sound when a predator is present. This discovery highlights the need for targeted management of noise in marine environments to mitigate its effects on aquatic ecosystems.
A new study by Carl Weems found that anxiety intervention programs focusing on academic matters can help students handle test anxiety and other issues. The program was associated with decreases in test anxiety, anxiety disorder, and depression symptoms among participants.
A new study published in Pediatrics finds that patients' degree of acceptance of genetic testing and gene-based drug dosing depends on their knowledge of these concepts. The researchers surveyed over 1,500 participants and found that those with higher knowledge levels were more open to the idea.
A survey of science teachers found that while they support the new approach, they struggle to believe all students can explore science using argumentation. In low-income schools, pressure to meet testing requirements limits its use.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that school hearing tests cannot effectively detect noise exposure-induced high-frequency hearing loss in adolescents. The tests primarily focus on low-frequency hearing loss and may not accurately identify hearing issues caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises.
Researchers have discovered two bacteria, Borrelia miyamotoi and Borrelia burgdorferi, in nearly every park sampled throughout the region. The findings raise questions about the prevalence of B. miyamotoi infections in California residents and highlight the need for improved diagnostic tests.
Research found no effects of school drug testing on high school students' experimentation with marijuana, cigarettes, and alcohol. However, a positive school climate with clear rules and respect among students and teachers was associated with reduced substance use.
A new algorithm for automated test construction has been developed to improve the alignment and validity of assessments for the Common Core State Standards. The study found that this approach can provide more accurate measures of student mastery, which is essential for effective instructional time use by school leaders. Additionally, t...
A new study suggests upgrading technology and relocating seismic stations in California can improve the warning time, particularly in areas poorly served by the existing network. In Taiwan, a low-cost sensor experiment has created a high-density network that can issue early warnings within 20 seconds of an earthquake detection.
Researchers at the Smithsonian found that e-readers can improve reading speed and comprehension for individuals with dyslexia by displaying short lines of text. This is particularly beneficial for those with visual attention deficits, who struggle to focus on letters within words or words within lines of text.
A new study evaluates the accuracy of neurocognitive testing compared to self-reported symptoms of concussions in cheerleaders. Researchers found that 62% of cheerleaders reported increased symptoms after a concussion, while 33% had decreased neurocognitive performance without realizing it.
Purdue University researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of real-time hybrid simulations for testing magnetorheological-fluid dampers, which can reduce structural damage during earthquakes. The simulations allow for reliable and efficient testing of these devices, enabling the optimization of building design and construction.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that singing short Hungarian phrases improved learning and recall compared to speaking them rhythmically. Adults who sang back performed better in four out of five tests, with some even recalling phrases twice as well as those who learned through speaking.
A study published in The Lancet found that individuals born between 1915 and 1998 showed better cognitive abilities and daily functioning compared to those born between 1905 and 1998. This improvement was seen despite slightly lower educational attainment in the older cohort.
Researchers found that preordering lunch led to healthier choices by up to 48%, as students opted for nutrient-dense options when full. The study suggests that electronic or paper-based systems can encourage health-conscious decisions at school lunches.
A new study finds that mindfulness training significantly reduces depression symptoms in adolescents, with a decrease of 12% compared to control group. After six months, the reduction persists, suggesting that mindfulness protects against the later development of depression-like symptoms.
A study by Rice University found that testing enhances learning among adults of all ages, improving memory retention and job performance. The research discovered that participants who took tests showed improved retention compared to restudying, even after a two-day delay.
Adults of various ages improved retention of new information by taking tests and receiving feedback compared to restudying, according to a study published in Psychology and Aging. The results suggest that testing can be an effective way to increase learning in adults of all ages.
A study by Brigham Young University economists found that girls outperformed boys in math competitions when the format was changed to a longer, multi-round competition. The study suggests that encouraging girls to stay in the competition and giving them time to acclimate can help them excel.
Researchers identified a specific math skill, number system knowledge, that correlates with later mathematical ability and employability. Interventions targeting this skill in early childhood may help students catch up and achieve career success.
A Western University study found that students proficient in basic single-digit arithmetic perform better on the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT), with brain activity linked to fact retrieval and fluency. This correlation suggests a critical role of arithmetic fluency in building mathematical proficiency among students.
A five-year NIH grant supports a program to develop resident genomic pathology curriculum, expanding pathologists' role in interpreting and acting on genomics data. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between genetic research and practical application in patient care.
A new test has been found to be more effective and cheaper than traditional cytology testing for women following pre-cervical cancer treatment. The study suggests that using HPV testing as a 'test of cure' can help avoid recurrence of cervical cancer and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.
A new study has shown that rapid and point-of-care hepatitis C tests are highly accurate and reliable, with accuracy rates ranging from 97 to 99%. These tests have the potential to transform global screening practices and improve treatment outcomes for millions of infected individuals worldwide.
Intensive LSAT training strengthens brain connections involved in thinking and reasoning, potentially improving IQ scores. Brain imaging reveals increased connectivity between frontal lobes, and between frontal and parietal lobes.
Frequent texting in techspeak may hinder a tween's ability to switch between proper grammar and shortcuts. Research found that students who frequently used text adaptations performed poorly on grammar tests, regardless of their age or grade level.
A University of Toronto study found that the type of relationship consumers form with brands influences their assessment of fairness. In exchange relationships, respectful treatment is more crucial in fair outcomes, while in communal relationships, it has less effect. Marketers must understand these dynamics to correct unfair outcomes.
A new study suggests that improving or maintaining physical fitness helps obese and overweight children reach a healthy weight. The research found that students who were initially underfit became fit, leading to a healthier weight, with benefits seen in both boys and girls.
A study found that bilingual children are faster at switching between tasks than their monolingual counterparts, showcasing improved executive functioning skills. However, bilinguals lag behind monolinguals in acquiring vocabulary due to language division.
A new study found that consumers' search for individual products is influenced by the order of choices, with larger choice sets being more daunting when presented first. By presenting smaller choice sets before larger ones, retailers may make large selections less intimidating.
A study led by Washington University in St. Louis suggests that military service changes a man's personality, making him less agreeable with friends and family, but more competitive and successful in his career. Despite the challenges, this influence can be seen as a positive trait.
A study by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada found that cardiac rehab reduces mortality, especially in those with low fitness levels. Patients who take responsibility for their health and make small fitness improvements can live longer.
Researchers have discovered a compound that destroys several viruses, including the deadly Spanish flu, by activating a human antiviral protein called REDD1. This finding offers new hope for treating flu strains resistant to anti-influenza drugs and could potentially lead to the development of a new drug.
A new visual test effectively diagnosed concussions in collegiate athletes, detecting impaired eye movements and rapid eye movements. The King-Devick test, a previously used dyslexia test, was validated as a reliable tool to aid medical professionals and trainers in determining which athletes need to come out of games.
The FDA has cleared a new diagnostic test that detects the cryptoccocal antigen, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment of cryptococcosis. The rapid blood test, known as the CrAg Lateral Flow Assay, is designed for resource-limited settings and can be administered in just a few minutes.
A study by Loyola researcher Christopher Randolph found that baseline concussion tests may have a high 'false negative' rate, returning injured athletes to play prematurely. This could lead to increased risks of further injury or cognitive impairments.
Researchers studied 437 family members aged 8-93, finding a strong link between active music listening, creativity, and genetic variations associated with AVPR1A gene. The study provides molecular evidence of sound's role in social communication and attachment behavior.
A recent study published in the Journal of Educational Computing Research found that consistent use of ASSISTments improved year-end test scores significantly for Massachusetts middle school students. The study showed a pronounced improvement in test scores, especially for special education students.
A simple one-minute test can detect concussions in athletes, capturing impairments of eye movement, attention, and brain function. The King-Devick test has the potential to become a standard sideline test for athletes.
A multidisciplinary faculty group at Tufts University School of Medicine recommends a strategic approach to teaching personalized genomic testing in medical school curricula. The group emphasizes the need for responsible use and privacy protection when introducing personal genotypes into education.