These materials are the work of high school teacher Paul L. Turse (1903-2004) and psychologist Walter N. Durost (1906-1984), as published by the World Book Company. The documents relate to Form A of a test for achievement in shorthand. This test is divided into three parts - language skills, shorthand penmanship, and shorthand principles. In addition to the test itself, documents include a key with directions for scoring the test, a manual of directions, and a class record sheet.
Turse also prepared a test of shorthand aptitude (see 1990.0034.063 for an example and further information about him). Durost was born in Maine, graduated from Bates College in 1929, and received his MA (1930) and PhD. (1932) from Teachers College of Columbia University. He was director of the research test service at World Book Company in Yonkers from 1937 to 1948, then an assistant professor of education at Boston University, then, from 1952, director of the Test Service and Advisement Center in Dunbarton, New Hampshire. In 1957, he took on responsibilities in Florida as well.
Reference:
American Psychological Association, 1962 Directory, ed. James Q. Holsopple, Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association, 1962, p. 185.
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