In-class evaluation of behavior modification knowledge: parallel tests for use in applied settings

A revision of the Knowledge of Behavioral Principles as Applied to Children test (O'Dell, Tarler-Benlolo and Flynn, 1979) is described. The revision includes reduction of the original 50 item test to two 10 item tests through administration of the test to a sample of 164 direct care staff after training in an applied human service setting. Psychometric assessment of the two short forms was done using a second sample of 111 trainees. Reducing the test had little impact on the internal consistency of the tests (from 0.862 to 0.735 and 0.765). The two short forms exhibited some of the characteristics of parallel forms (equal means and variances) and their intercorrelation (r = 0.87, corrected for attenuation) was sufficient for further use in research or evaluation settings. Suggestions for further development and use of the two forms were made.