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The Measurement of Growth

Author(s):
Lord, Frederic M.
Publication Year:
1956
Report Number:
RB-56-02
Source:
ETS Research Bulletin
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
25
Subject/Key Words:
Achievement Gains, Gain Scores, Mathematical Formulas, Pretests Posttests, Regression Effects, Scores, Time Factors (Learning)

Abstract

A regression formula is derived for estimating a student's true gain from his initial and final test scores. A formula is given for the reliability of estimates thus obtained. A numerical example is given, illustrating some marked inadequacies of the simple, "commonsense" procedure that estimates gain by subtracting initial from final score. A convenient graphic procedure is presented for grouping all examinees tested according to the size of their estimated true gains.

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