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Relationships of Test Item Characteristics to Test Preparation/Test Practice Effects: A Quantitative Summary SAT

Author(s):
Powers, Donald E.
Publication Year:
1986
Report Number:
RR-86-03
Source:
ETS Research Report
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
38
Subject/Key Words:
Coaching, Item Types, Literature Reviews, Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), Test Construction, Test Items, Test Preparation

Abstract

Ten studies of the effects of test preparation or test practice were located that provided effect estimates for individual test item types. These item-level effects were related to a number of test item characteristics, including item format, difficulty level, and complexity of test directions. Strong relationships were noted between test preparation/practice effects and (a) the length and complexity of test directions and (b) the item format employed. Suggestions are made for further research on the relationship of test item characteristics to the susceptibility of tests to coaching and practice. (38pp.)

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