The Jamaican Grade 6 Achievement Test (JGSAT) was developed to have multiple roles, the fourth is contemplated to replace the Common Entrance Examination (CEE). Validity of the JGSAT, as a selection device, is complicated by its multiple and diverse roles. Two questions guided this study: To what extent does the available evidence support interpreting and using the JGSAT for selection? What are the anticipated consequences of using the JGSAT for selection? / The JGSAT's validation is based on Messick's (1989a, 1989b) approach in which validity is a unitary concept based on an evaluative judgement. This requires evidence of appropriate interpretation and use, and consideration of resulting consequences of using the JGSAT for selection. The literature review examined psychometric characteristics of two prominent tests and identified specific consequences of seven tests. The specific consequences were classified into seven broad categories of consequences. The psychometric characteristics and the broad categories were then used for examining the JGSAT's validity. / The investigation of psychometric characteristics of the JGSAT involved assessing reliability and predictive validity. Demonstrations were done using item response theory and multiple regression. Anticipated consequences were also examined. / Three findings were based on evidence. (i) JGSAT is reliable and may be used for selection if predictive validity is improved. (ii) Additional investigative and developmental work are required. (iii) Multiple regression and IRT are useful for improving precision and predictive validity respectively. / Discussions on consequences suggested three findings. (i) The CEE has negative characteristics and has devastating consequences. (ii) The JGSAT has positive characteristics that may promote improved student performance and educational quality and may change public perception of schools. (iii) Anticipated consequences of the JGSAT would be realized only if primary and secondary education are overhauled. / The study concluded the educational context of selection must be overhauled as a corollary for using the JGSAT. Implementing the JGSAT within the present context would result in those consequences observed for the CEE. The imperative is to change the educational context, within which selection occurs, contemporaneously with implementing the JGSAT and for it to be used first as a selection, and then as a placement, test. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 57-04, Section: A, page: 1585. / Major Professor: Albert Oosterhof. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--The Florida State University, 1996.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_77705 |
| Contributors | Russell, Fitz-Albert Regina., Florida State University |
| Source Sets | Florida State University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text |
| Format | 313 p. |
| Rights | On campus use only. |
| Relation | Dissertation Abstracts International |
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