Using Basic Skills Testing to Improve the Effectiveness of Remediation in Employment and Training Programs for Youth

摘要

The report focuses on assessing basic educational skills remediation programs offered under the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) with special emphasis on youth programs. The paper provides (1) comparative information on some of the most widely used basic skills assessment strategies--both standardized tests and criterion-referenced approaches, (2) examples of how assessment data can be used in program planning, and (3) policy recommendations for consideration at the State and local level. Four steps are identified in assessing individual needs (1) appraisal, (2) individual diagnostics, (3) monitoring progress, and (4) certification tests. Assessment must be used to define client target groups according to basic educational needs and three types of clients based on these needs: pre-employable, nearly employable, and employable are suggested. Testing is described as a useful technique at each stage of the assessment process. The authors review the test and measurement issues that affect the test selection process.