What is Testing: Definition and 631 Discussions

A test or examination (informally, exam or evaluation) is an educational assessment intended to measure a test-taker's knowledge, skill, aptitude, physical fitness, or classification in many other topics (e.g., beliefs). A test may be administered verbally, on paper, on a computer, or in a predetermined area that requires a test taker to demonstrate or perform a set of skills.
Tests vary in style, rigor and requirements. There is no general consensus or invariable standard for test formats and difficulty. Often, the format and difficulty of the test is dependent upon the educational philosophy of the instructor, subject matter, class size, policy of the educational institution, and requirements of accreditation or governing bodies.
A test may be administered formally or informally. An example of an informal test is a reading test administered by a parent to a child. A formal test might be a final examination administered by a teacher in a classroom or an IQ test administered by a psychologist in a clinic. Formal testing often results in a grade or a test score. A test score may be interpreted with regards to a norm or criterion, or occasionally both. The norm may be established independently, or by statistical analysis of a large number of participants.
A test may be developed and administered by an instructor, a clinician, a governing body, or a test provider. In some instances, the developer of the test may not be directly responsible for its administration. For example, Educational Testing Service (ETS), a nonprofit educational testing and assessment organization, develops standardized tests such as the SAT but may not directly be involved in the administration or proctoring of these tests.

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  1. M

    Need help testing vector separation.

    I'm writing code to check if polygons intersect, but I've ran into a problem. I have two "vectors." Each has an origin and x and y components. They are facing towards each other. I need to write code that determines if there's a perpendicular axis that separates them. Here's a picture of what...
  2. P

    Testing the Validity of Arguments

    Boolean Algebra: Everyone will now about the situation once Jay starts gossiping. Leon is upset because everyone knows about the situation. Since Leon is upset, May is unhappy. Therefore, May is unhappy when Jay starts gossiping. I attached my working and I said it was invalid as line...
  3. G

    Testing strongly binned data for normality?

    Hi, if I have some spread over a very small range of binned values, how can I test if the distribution is normal. Basically if it weren't, then the data would be fraud data. Is there a way to calculate something like a probability that the data was not manipulated and is correctly given by the...
  4. wolram

    Can Gamma-Ray Telescopes Test Quantum-Spacetime Relativity?

    Has anyone looked at this, it seems interesting to me. arXiv:1006.0007 [pdf, ps, other] Title: Testing quantum-spacetime relativity with gamma-ray telescopes Authors: Giovanni Amelino-Camelia, Antonino Marciano, Marco Matassa, Giacomo Rosati Comments: 5 pages Subjects...
  5. E

    Testing if 40% of Kentuckians Prefer Popcorn

    Homework Statement We want to test wheter 40% of Kentuckians prefer popcorn as their movie snack of choice. a randon smaple of 100 movie goers shows that 55 of tehm pick popcorn as their favorite movie snack. Check the normality conditions, state the hypothesis, and state your conclusions...
  6. H

    Testing the Equivalence Principle with Spectral Anisotropies

    It suddenly occurred to me that I've never heard of a test of the Equivalence Principle itself - such as something like ... An accelerating laboratory [in space] can see very obvious effects in external astronomical observations. Depending on the rate of acceleration, there would be...
  7. D

    Testing the Convergence of Series: A Counterexample

    Homework Statement If \sum_{k=1}^{\infty} a_k converges and a_k/b_k \to 0 as k\to \infty, then \sum_{k=1}^{\infty} b_k converges.Homework Equations It is true or false.The Attempt at a Solution I think it is false and here is my counterexample. Let a_k = 0,b_k=\frac{1}{k}. This satisfies our...
  8. C

    Testing Eigen Values: How to Check Accuracy Before Finding Eigen Vectors

    Homework Statement This is probably a really simple question , but how do i test my eigen values to see if there right ,---------- (A-tI)x=0 where t is an eigen value , I know how to test if my eigen vectors are correct but how do i test to see if my eigen values are right ...
  9. G

    Testing for anions and cations in solutions

    In one of my events for Science Olympiad, I am given a water sample and must test for certain anions and cations. This wouldn't be a problem, except for the only chemicals we are given are HCl and NaOH. We are provided kits for certain ions, like phosphate and nitrate, but on the last test we...
  10. B

    Students were testing their hearing range

    In an experiment, students were testing their hearing range and found that it averaged about 25 Hz to 18 000 Hz. What are the wavelengths of sound waves producing these frequencies in air where the speed of sound is 343 m/s? Would I use the formula wavelength= velocity/ frequency...
  11. D

    What Should I Use For Solar Cell Dust Testing

    Hello! Right now I am trying to figure out how much of an affect dust has on the power production of some solar cells that I have. I was just searching for a possible material to use for dust testing. Anyone have any bright ideas?
  12. D

    Testing for convergence/divergence

    I've got a couple of problems I'm stuck on. Any help gratefully received! Test for convergence/divergence: \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac {(n+1)}{n^3 ln(n+2)} What test should I do here? Can I rearrange the equation to be: \frac{(\frac{1}{n^2} + \frac{1}{n^3})}{ln(n+2)} and then use...
  13. M

    Non-destructive testing - Porosity

    Hi all, We have a bearing pad at work that failed a porosity test and could not hold pressure (this was the pad itself and not the babbit surface). I need to look into some NDT testing that will give us an idea about the porosity. I have googled and some sites say different things, from...
  14. N

    Intuition for testing source in thevenin/norton

    when i have a system of only dependant sources and i want to find its norton /thevenin representation i need to add a testing source on the ports from whome we want to see the reaction how to know that i should put a voltage source or current source ?
  15. Rasalhague

    Testing my understanding of flux

    Here's what I understand by flux: \int \textbf{F} \cdot \textup{d}\textbf{A}, the surface integral of a vector field. I gather the vector field that's integrated to give a flux is called the flux density (examples: the magnetic B field for magnetic flux, the Poynting vector for...
  16. M

    Testing model yachts for drag.

    Homework Statement A yacht is of length 5m and travels at 10m/s. A scale model of length 0.5m is tested in a tank in order to predict drag on the yacht. Assuming that the fluid density and viscosity are the same for the yacht and model, can we obtain similarity? What is our best value for...
  17. A

    Testing Limits: Can False Statements Exist?

    Homework Statement If \lim_{x\rightarrow c} f(x) = f(c) for all values of c, 0<or= c <or=5, and f(0)\neqf(5), which of the following could be false? A. f(4) exists B. f'(1) exists C. \lim_{x\rightarrow2^+} f(x) exists D. \lim_{x\rightarrow3} f(x) = \lim_{x\rightarrow3^+} f(x) E...
  18. D

    Normal Distribution: Hypothesis Testing

    Homework Statement A cola company's long-term market share is estimated to be 45%. After an extensive advertising campaign, 68 out of 150 customers surveyed claimed to have purchased this company's cola recently. Was the advertising campaign a success? justify your assessment Homework...
  19. S

    Calculating Impact Force of Freefalling Objects in Fenestration Testing

    There is a standard impact test that is used in the fenestration industry. An air cannon is used to fire a piece of lumber at the unit being tested. The mass of the 'missile' is 4.09 kg. The velocity of the missile is 15.26 m/s. I am wondering if there is a way to approximate this test...
  20. X

    Is My Nitinol Wire Training Process Correct?

    Hi I am a high school senior barely scratching the surface of Nitinol traingin and testing. I ham currently trying to train .037 Nitinol wire but I can't seem to train it. On one occasion I placed the mold in an already heated oven around 900F and left it in for 5 minutes. Upon removal I...
  21. L

    Real world testing bench - trying to check my calculations

    I know this seems like a homework question but the last time I was in a physics class was <ahem> 1982. For product testing reasons, I have fabricated a (rough, very rough--no laughing at the fabrication/welding) 'repeating pendulum hammer'. Please see "test rig diagram.jpg" Distance from A to...
  22. S

    Testing Divergence: Alternating Series

    Can the Test for Divergence (limit of an->infinity not equal to zero) be used on an alternating series? For example, if a series has a (-1)^n term. Can we assume that since the limit of that term does not exist, then the series is automatically diverging?
  23. H

    Testing System Linearity and Shift Invariance

    please anyone can help me how make check the linearity and shift invarient for the system I want to determine whether the system is linear and shift invarientby steps g(m,n) = f(m,-1) + f(m,0) + f(m,1) g(x) = (integration from +infinety to - infinety) f(x,z) dz please help me...
  24. C

    Hypothesis Testing: Binomial Distribution

    Homework Statement Let X have a binomial distribution with the number of trails n = 10 and with p either 0.25 or 0.5. The simple null hypothesis p = 0.5 is rejected and the alternate hypothesis p = 0.25 is accepted if the observed value of X1, a random sample of size 1, is less than or equal...
  25. E

    Engineering A testing sorce for this circuit

    http://i48.tinypic.com/2je2omq.jpg i need to find thevenin representation for this circuit i found that V_{th}=I_3*7 all the sources are dependant so we need to connect a testing source of 1 volt and see what current comes out but here i have step function so it could be 0 or 1...
  26. C

    Hypothesis Testing: Sig. Level & Power of Test

    Homework Statement Let X have a binomial distribution with the number of trails n = 10 and with p either 0.25 or 0.5. The simple null hypothesis p = 0.5 is rejected and the alternate hypothesis p = 0.25 is accepted if the observed value of X1, a random sample of size 1, is less than or equal...
  27. L

    What chronology of Bell inequalities testing ?

    Hi all ! What chronology of Bell inequalities testing ( their violation ) ? What positive and negative aspects of each experiment ? What experiments have been spent latest years ? Some material: http://arxiv.org/PS_cache/quant-ph/pdf/0310/0310192v1.pdf Thanks.
  28. Q

    Hypothesis Testing: Binomial Experiment

    Homework Statement A drug company markets a medication that cures about 60% of cases with depression. A CB program is thought to be more effective. It was delivered to 15 depressed people. Determine the minimum number of cured people required to support the claim that the CB program is more...
  29. T

    Can a Portable Biochemical Testing Device Revolutionize Disease Management?

    Hi all, I was thinking recently about insulin testing, and whether the convenience could be extended to other hormones and biochemicals in the body. For instance the thyroid molecules T3 and T4. It seems like a device capable of testing for the level of these molecules on the fly would be...
  30. R

    Testing Prepare For Standardized Tests: Clarity & Fluidity Tips

    What are good ways to prepare for standardized tests (IQ, SAT, etc) that ensure maximum clarity/fluidity of thought?
  31. E

    Insulation Resistance Testing - Issue with Hi-Pot Tester

    So, I have a HiPot tester with a minimum capable voltage of 100VDC. I'm testing for any leakage between a string-pot and the housing case for the unit it goes into, with the requirement being 45VDC applied to it. With the HiPot tester incapable of supplying a voltage that low, I am thinking...
  32. Q

    Hypothesis Testing - Basic Theory Question

    Homework Statement Karen asks John to guess the date of her birth, not including the year (i.e. the day and month she was born; discount leap years). If John guessed correctly on his first try, would you believe his claim that he made a lucky guess or would you be suspicious that he already...
  33. W

    Regression strategy for hypothesis testing vs prediction

    Hi, I'm interested in this question primarily in how it relates to what is usually called classic or frequentist statistics (p-values, etc). I'm fully aware of how stepwise and other automated techniques can negatively impact analyses and render inference based upon parameter estimates...
  34. E

    Resonance Testing Method for Studying Chamber Resonance: Homework Questions

    Homework Statement Hello, I'm working on a semester project a measurements class at my college. We are measuring the affects of different materials on the resonance of chambers. We are testing two chambers, one in the shape of a rectangular prism, one in the shape of a cylinder. We will be...
  35. N

    Hypothesis Testing: Comparing Car Repair Costs with New vs Old Bumper Bars

    Homework Statement A hire-car firm is considering a special bumper bar designed to lower the cost of car repairs following minor accidents. This bumper bar is more expensive than the conventional one. It will only be introduced permanently if any reduction in the cost of repairs is judged to...
  36. 9

    Testing Beating Test Anxiety: Tips for Working Under Pressure

    I usually get pretty nervous before tests / quizzes and I am a rather slow test taker. I suppose I could be optimistic and just say I am very thorough. I usually use as much time is allowed, and if there is no time limit I am usually one of the last to leave. If possible I like to go through...
  37. M

    Machines Testing: Types, Operation & More

    Does anybody know where can I find something about testing machines? Something about main types, how do they operate etc.
  38. L

    Testing golf ball aerodynamics.? how?

    Homework Statement Testing golf ball aerodynamics.? how? i need a simple way to test the aerodynamic properties of spheres with different surfaces. i was thinking of doing it with liquid as in this video is there any other way i can do it or perhaps a way i can do it the way they...
  39. M

    Electromagnetic induction Coil testing

    Whats the easiest way to test the max output of electricity induced in an air coil. I will wire it 3 phase delta. (or double delta) Will I need a resistive load attached for current flow? What should I use? How do I test? Use a multi tester? Is there math I can use to estimate the amount. I...
  40. W

    Stress Testing Airfoil Models

    I am currently preparing for a few wind tunnel tests on a NACA 2412 airfoil. The lab technician told me that before I can use the tunnel, I need to provide solid proof that the models will be able to hold up in the wind tunnel (up to speeds of 110 mph (30 psf)). In the technician's own words...
  41. K

    Testing pH Change of Na2CO3 Solution After a Month

    Does anyone know if a Na2CO3 solution will change in pH when you leave it for a month? Will the pH go up or down? I thought maybe the CO2 would escape which would make the pH go higher?
  42. J

    Testing Group Properties on Q with Binary Operation *

    Group properties: 1. \forall a, b, c \in G, (a * b) * c = a * (b * c). (associativity) 2. \exists e \in G such that \forall x \in G, e * x = x * e = x. (identity) 3. \forall a \in G, \exists a' \in G such that, a * a' = a' * a = e (inverse) Instruction: Determine whether the...
  43. S

    Methods of laboratory fatigue testing?

    Methods of laboratory fatigue testing?? I have had a try at this question but don't think the answer was enough. Can someone please check it and give me the correct answer. Question Outline the methods of laboratory fatigue testing and the results likely to be obtained. (10 marks)...
  44. F

    RF testing: Balistics Gel for human analog?

    I am designing an antenna for a consumer product. The consumer will be very close to the device. I have designed antennas for products like this many times before and have the proper equipment to do so. It's low power, meets all FCC regs for our band etc... I am tired of doing the...
  45. J

    Testing sequence for boundaries and monotony

    I'm trying to solve a problem from a practice test I was given. It says. Determine if the sequence is bounded and if it's decreasing or increasing: a = \frac{arcsin(1/n)}{arctan(1/n)} I don't really know where to start as I don't remember seeing how to test sequences for boundaries or anything...
  46. B

    Testing Water for Magnesium w/ Titration Kit

    In my work we are suffering now from a problem of magnesium in water that we are using for drilling, we need test kit to test magnesium oncentration we could not use photometric analysis or any other complicated device we need method of testing depend on titration reaction could anyone help me
  47. W

    Hypothesis Testing in Statistics

    Homework Statement A random sample of 30 rats has 18 females and 12 males. If last year's proportion of females treated was 0.65, do the above data confirm that this year the proportion of females is different than last year? Homework Equations p = treated / total If using standard...
  48. J

    Psychometric Testing: Does it Work?

    Psychometric Testing: Does it work/are the results reliable/accurate? What do you think of it?
  49. J

    Determine if the space is a subspace testing both closure axioms

    Homework Statement determine if the space is a subspace testing both closure axioms. in R^2 the set of vectors (a,b) where ab=0 Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution i just used the sum and product which are the closure axioms. But at the end how do you tell if the...
  50. P

    Testing photoheterotrophic, autotrophic and fermentation of R.rubrum?

    I need to test photoheteretrophic, autotrophic and fermentation growth of R.rubrum bacteria, all of which require anaerobic conditions. For fermentation, i am placing the bacteria with fructose in the dark, and for phototrophic in the light with fructose, and for autotrophic in the light with...
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