Interactive Diagnostic Testing: Field Trial Results

A diagnostic testing system managed by microcomputer was evaluated in actual use at the upper primary level. Two tests specifically designed to yield diagnostic indicators of erroneous performance were utilized, one a test of pronoun usage, the other a test of reading comprehension. The results are interpreted from the standpoint of the examinees, of the tests, and of the computer software. Lessons about the viability of test management software in real-time use, about the patterning of erroneous responses, and about the efficiency of diagnostic testing by computer are discussed.