Scientific Reasoning Test (SR)

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The Scientific Reasoning Test (SR) is a computerized, multiple-choice test developed by the JMU Center for Assessment and Research Studies (CARS) and faculty from science and mathematics domains. It is designed to assess the scientific reasoning ability of students who have completed their general education requirements, and measures the following learning objectives:

1. Describe the methods of inquiry that lead to mathematical truth and scientific knowledge and be able to distinguish science from pseudoscience
2. Use theories and models as unifying principles that help us understand natural phenomena and make predictions.
3. Recognize the interdependence of applied research, basic research, and technology, and how they affect society.
4. Illustrate the interdependence between developments in science and social and ethical issues.
5. Formulate hypotheses, identify relevant variables, and design experiments to test hypotheses.
6. Evaluate the credibility, use, and misuse of scientific and mathematical information in scientific developments and public policy issues.

The SR is recommended for use with general education program assessment and evaluation.

About the SR:

Validity Evidence:
Scores on this test have been shown to correlate positively with grades in relevant courses.
Scores increase with greater exposure to relevant courses.
Scores discriminate between students who have completed their general education requirements and those who have not.

Technical Requirements:
Internet Explorer 5.0 or later
Resolution: 1024 X 768
Windows or UNIX operating system

Administration:
Test software resides on JMU servers
Secure administration
CARS provides institutions with dataset of scores and scored responses.

More Information:
Contact Donna L. Sundre, Executive Director
Center for Assessment and Research Studies MSC 6806
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA 22807
(540) 568-3483
sundredl@jmu.edu
http://www.jmu.edu/assessment