The paper titled "Training In-Service Teachers in Test Construction Skills (TCS)" by Dr. Karem Abd-ELatif Ahmed focuses on investigating the effects of a training program on in-service English teachers' acquisition and performance in test construction skills. The study aimed to determine how effective training would be in improving these skills among teachers who had not previously received formal education in this area.
The research employed a semi-experimental design, utilizing a pre-test-post-test control group format. Fifty in-service English teachers from the General Diploma, Faculty of Education, Al-Minia University, Egypt, were randomly selected as participants. The study involved a two-month training program on test construction skills, after which the teachers were assessed through written tests to evaluate their acquisition and performance improvements.
Key findings from the study indicated that the training program significantly enhanced the teachers' abilities in test construction. The post-training tests showed marked improvement in the teachers' acquisition and performance of the skills taught. The study concluded that such training programs are crucial for equipping in-service teachers with the necessary skills to construct effective and reliable tests, thereby improving the overall quality of education.
In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of continuous professional development for teachers, particularly in the area of test construction, to ensure accurate and valid assessments in educational settings. The findings suggest that similar training programs could be beneficial in other contexts and encourage further research on long-term effects and applicability to different teaching environments.