Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why use a mathematics placement test?
2. What are the characteristics of a good mathematics placement test?
3. How is a mathematics test validated?
4. How does one choose mathematics placement tests for our array of entry-level mathematics courses?
5. Who develops cut-off scores for the mathematics placement test we have chosen? How often should these cut-off scores be reviewed and changed, if necessary?
6. What kind of data is needed to develop appropriate cut-off scores for a mathematics placement test?
7. Who should administer the mathematics placement test program on our campus?
8. What scores should I expect?
9. In addition to a mathematics placement test score what other student data can be used in making the decision about the courses a student should take?
10. How can my institution get help in establishing its mathematics placement testing program using the Maplesoft-MAA Placement Test Suite?
11. Who can answer other questions that I have about mathematics placement testing and about the Maplesoft-MAA Placement Test Suite?
12. What is an item?
13. How do you write an item?
14. How do you refine an item?
15. How do you know when you have a bad r-biserial and what do you do about it?
16. How do you use delta values for questions?
17. What is a power test and what is a speed test?
18. How do you modify an existing placement test?
19. How do you find a replacement item?
20. How do you construct a replacement item?