Educational Assessment and NCLB Act Quiz

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Questions and Answers

Which factor has NOT contributed to the increased demands for testing and assessment in education?

National and state content and performance standards

Decreased global competition (correct)

State and national demands for increased accountability

National and international assessment programs

What is a key trend in educational measurement that is expected to expand?

Decreased use of standardized paper-and-pencil testing

Online, computer-based testing (correct)

Reduced emphasis on performance assessment tasks

Increased reliance on human scorers for complex tasks

Which of these is an issue raised by the increased reliance on testing and assessment as an educational reform tool?

Increased validity of tests

The fairness of uses and interpretations of tests (correct)

Decreased cost of testing

Greater ease of test administration

According to the provided text, what is a characteristic of mandated tests and assessments in the United States?

They come in a variety of forms and serve a range of purposes. Signup and view all the answers

What does the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act require states to do regarding testing?

Test students annually in grades 3 through 8 and at least once in high school in reading, math, and science. Signup and view all the answers

What is specified about the tests required by the No Child Left Behind Act?

They are standards based. Signup and view all the answers

What type of test is mentioned in the context as being evaluated by computers?

Constructed responses to complex tasks Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the implementation of statewide testing requirements in the United States?

They vary in nature, tested grades, and subject areas from state to state. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the testing required by the NCLB Act?

To hold schools, districts, and states accountable for student achievement. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the initial consequences for a school identified as 'needs improvement' under the NCLB Act?

The school must develop an improvement plan and offer public school choice. Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided information, which of the following is NOT a common reason for the controversy surrounding standardized tests?

They are believed to overemphasize high-level skills and critical thinking. Signup and view all the answers

Besides accountability, for what other purpose might states use their testing and assessment requirements?

To aid in school accreditation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'barometer' role of tests and assessments, as defined in the provided information?

To provide information about student achievement and the quality of schooling. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'lever of reform' role of tests and assessments, as defined in the information?

To motivate more focused efforts by students and teachers while clarifying educational priorities. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a reason why tests and assessments are appealing to policy makers?

They lead directly to increases in instructional time. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence for schools that have been identified as 'needs improvement' for two consecutive years?

They must provide tutoring services for low-income students. Signup and view all the answers

What do the Common Core State Standards aim to define?

Standards of performance for the NCLB. Signup and view all the answers

What does NCLB require states to participate in every other year at grades 4 and 8?

The state-by-state NAEP in reading and mathematics. Signup and view all the answers

What type of assessment is used as an alternative to standardized tests?

Teacher-made tests and assessments. Signup and view all the answers

What does the provided information suggest about the usage of standardized tests in the USA?

They have been used for a long time for various purposes. Signup and view all the answers

What is typically the final and most severe sanction applied to schools that continue to be identified as 'needs improvement' under NCLB?

Restructuring. Signup and view all the answers

What is a factor that makes tests and assessments appealing to educational policymakers?

Their relatively low cost compared to other educational interventions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common concern about standardized testing in education?

They might promote the teaching of facts over deeper insights. Signup and view all the answers

What was the core focus of Minimum Competency Testing (MCT) programs?

Basic skills needed for the next grade level or high school diploma. Signup and view all the answers

What key ruling was established in the Debra P. v. Turlington case regarding MCT testing?

Students required to be given a two-year notice and opportunity to learn the material tested. Signup and view all the answers

What document is most recognized for encouraging test-based reforms in the mid- and late 1980s?

A Nation at Risk: The Imperative for Educational Reform Signup and view all the answers

According to A Nation at Risk, how were tests proposed to be used to reform education?

To document shortcomings in achievement, certify credentials, identify need for intervention, and opportunity for advanced work. Signup and view all the answers

What was a major consequence of the increased pressure on schools to improve test scores?

Increased focus on teaching test-taking skills and tested materials. Signup and view all the answers

What was the 'Lake Wobegon effect'?

The finding that essentially all states and most districts were reporting that their students were scoring above the national norm. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the primary reasons cited for the 'Lake Wobegon effect'?

The pressure to improve test scores and reuse of old test norms. Signup and view all the answers

In the 1990s, what area was added to the emphasis on accountability in education?

The adoption of 'world-class' standards. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was stressed during the standards-based reform of the 1990s?

Using assessments that require students to perform more substantial tasks. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of educational standards, according to the text?

To specify what should be taught and what students should learn. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major characteristic of high-stakes testing environments?

Important topics not tested are sometimes ignored. Signup and view all the answers

How did the 1980s testing reforms affect educators?

Educators experienced an increased sense of accountability for student achievement. Signup and view all the answers

What did 'A Nation at Risk' conclude about the state of education?

It concluded the educational foundations were being eroded by mediocrity. Signup and view all the answers

How were test results used in the accountability programs of the 1980s?

To create 'report cards' for schools and districts, highlighting student performance. Signup and view all the answers

What was a common type of assessment that was included in the standards-based reform?

Constructing extended essay responses and conducting experiments. Signup and view all the answers

Why are externally mandated tests and assessments often favored by policymakers?

They are relatively inexpensive and can be implemented quickly, often within an elected official's term. Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided text, what dual role do mandated tests and assessments play in education?

They act as both a barometer of current educational status and as a lever for educational reform. Signup and view all the answers

What was Joseph Rice's contribution to the educational testing movement in the early 20th century?

He conducted studies that questioned the effective use of instructional time through spelling and mathematics tests. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965, particularly Title I, impact the testing industry?

It created a major increase in test development and usage due to congressional demands for evaluation and accountability. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary motivation behind the implementation of minimum-competency testing (MCT) in the 1970s and early 1980s?

To address the perceived lack of skills among high school graduates. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'barometer' refer to, in the context of educational assessments described in the given text?

The function of tests in documenting student progress and the quality of education. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors does NOT make tests and assessments appealing to policymakers?

The direct changes made to daily classroom activities and teacher skill. Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided text, when did the use of tests expand most significantly?

After World War II, particularly from the 1960s to the present Signup and view all the answers

What was a key feature of the Testing demands of the Title I Evaluation and Reporting System (TIERS)?

Fall and Spring testing for Title I students in order to track progress. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary concern that led to an increase of testing requirements during the 1970's and 80's?

Concerns about students leaving school without sufficient skills. Signup and view all the answers

Who uses test results to document shortcomings and as instruments of educational reform?

Educational reformers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of content standards in education?

To define what students should know and be able to do. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of performance standards?

Defining the criteria for evaluating student work in relation to content standards. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the phrase 'lever of reform' in the context of educational assessment?

The use of tests to clarify educational priorities while motivating effort, and holding educators and students accountable. Signup and view all the answers

What was a key driver behind the move to create the Common Core State Standards (CCSS)?

Concerns about inconsistent standards and variable quality across different states. Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary focus of the mid-1960s regarding education?

Addressing disparities in educational opportunities and student performance. Signup and view all the answers

Which organization was primarily responsible for starting the development of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS)?

The National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and the Council of Chief State School Officers. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not mentioned as a factor that might make tests appealing to policymakers?

The length of time tests take to produce meaningful results. Signup and view all the answers

What did the 1992 report by the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) say about the historical use of tests in the US?

Tests have historically been used for a number of different purposes, including reform and measuring progress. Signup and view all the answers

What premise is represented by the acronym WYTIWYG in the context of assessment?

What you test is what you get. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of 'authentic assessment'?

To test students with tasks that have real-world relevance outside the classroom. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the premises that performance-based assessments are based on?

All assessments must prioritize machine-scored, fixed-response formats. Signup and view all the answers

What is a fundamental idea behind advocating for increases reliance of performance based assessment?

Modify assessments to enhance student learning. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of End-of-Course (EOC) assessments?

To provide summative assessments that align curriculum, learning and instruction. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'high-stakes' generally mean in the context of educational testing?

The results of tests are used primarily to determine rewards and sanctions for schools. Signup and view all the answers

What is the general trend regarding test results with respect to consequences for schools?

There has been a trend toward ratcheting up the stakes attached to test results for schools. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was instrumental in prompting the development and adoptions of content standards across states in 1990s?

Encouragement from content-specific associations and the federal government. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of the CCSS?

They are aligned with college and work expectations and based on rigorous content. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase, ‘make assessments worth teaching to’ mean?

Assessments should be designed to reflect important content that would be valuable for students to learn. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the term ‘performance’ as used in performance-based assessment?

The construction of a student response. Signup and view all the answers

What is a typical consequence for schools that show a decline in student performance on mandated assessments?

Bringing in an external team to oversee the school's operations Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition might public school choice be offered to students?

When a school is identified as low-performing on mandated assessments Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary emphasis of standards-based educational efforts regarding student expectations?

High expectations for all students, regardless of background Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of eligible students must schools test to avoid being placed in the 'needs-improvement' category?

95% Signup and view all the answers

For English-language learners who are proficient in another language, what alternative might be used for assessment?

Assessment in the student's first language Signup and view all the answers

What serves as the essential source for guiding the decisions that teachers must make in regards to accommodations when working with students with IEPs?

The student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant difference between the new graduation requirements and the minimum competency testing movement of the 1970s and 1980s?

New requirements include more ambitious performance standards Signup and view all the answers

Which type of accommodation could improve the validity of an assessment for all students?

Untimed assessments or ones with generous time limits Signup and view all the answers

What is one accommodation that might be needed for students with visual impairments during an assessment?

Large-print and Braille versions of an assessment Signup and view all the answers

What is a typical accommodation for a student with a physical handicap who is not able to physically record their responses to an assessment?

Providing someone else to record their responses for them Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is mentioned as an accommodation commonly suggested for students with learning disabilities?

Shorter assessments Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common category of students that were previously excluded from assessments and have IEPs?

Students with learning disabilities Signup and view all the answers

What was the driving factor behind the NCLB Act being applied to all public schools?

The extensive testing requirements Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of education did the NCLB Act of 2001 reinforce?

The role of content and performance standards Signup and view all the answers

What is the guiding principle for accommodations on an assessment, whether it's externally mandated or developed by the teacher?

The accommodations should be comparable to those required by the IEP for instruction Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC)?

To enhance student achievement by providing an assessment system aligned with the Common Core State Standards. Signup and view all the answers

According to the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, what are student academic achievement standards required to describe?

Three levels of achievement: basic, proficient, and advanced. Signup and view all the answers

How does the SMARTER Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) aim to improve student outcomes?

By using computer adaptive assessments to minimize feedback time and providing varied assessments. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 'proficient' level, as defined by the NCLB Act, in relation to state-set achievement targets?

It signifies the achievement level used for the intermediate annual targets leading to all students reaching this level or higher by 2014. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary criticism or opposition argument against using value-added models for teacher evaluation?

Student test data may not be sufficiently reliable or valid for such high-stakes personnel decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main role of state-adopted content standards as mentioned in the text?

To form a basis for challenging student performance standards that a state will use. Signup and view all the answers

Why is there a concern about the variability in the stringency of performance standards among states?

It makes it difficult to compare student outcomes across states. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'adequate yearly progress' (AYP) target primarily relate to?

The comparison of a school's student achievement in reading/language arts and math to stated goals. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of the digital libraries associated with PARCC and SBAC?

Value-added models and implementation guidelines. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between the PARCC and SBAC assessment systems according to the text?

PARCC uses only summative assessments, unlike SBAC which uses a balanced approach. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated about the use of standardized student test scores in the complete evaluation of teacher effectiveness?

They are an important component, but not the only factor. Signup and view all the answers

What is a shared characteristic of both PARCC and SBAC regarding their assessments?

They both aim to minimize feedback time using computer adaptive testing. Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the aim of student achievement targets such that all students will be at or above the 'proficient' level by 2014?

Adequate yearly progress (AYP). Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for the development and use of common content standards?

To ensure students have a uniform education and preparation for specific future goals. Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a benefit of using value-added models for teacher evaluations, as opposed to using student test scores at one point in time?

They adjust for student and school characteristics giving a more realistic view of the teacher's impact. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it difficult to evaluate a teacher's effectiveness based solely on student test scores?

Because students are not randomly assigned to teachers, some have better performing students and test scores are affected by factors outside the teacher's control. Signup and view all the answers

What do proponents of high-stakes testing primarily argue?

That tests measure important learning objectives and encourage teachers to focus on them. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern raised by critics regarding the emphasis on test results in education?

That important educational objectives might be ignored if not included in the tests. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'teaching to the test' and 'teaching the test itself,' and how are they different?

'Teaching to the test' emphasizes objectives covered on the test while 'teaching the test itself' focuses on specific items. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main risk of teaching the specific items on a test, instead of focusing on the broader concepts?

It reduces the overall validity of a test score, and inflates the perceived level of achievement. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason for the growing use of computers in educational testing?

To achieve faster turnaround times and more efficient testing process. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the public in educational testing and assessment?

The public has become an active voice, demanding evidence of school program effectiveness, and influencing policy. Signup and view all the answers

According to data provided in the text, how have test scores changed over time according the the National Assessment for Educational Progress?

There have been increases for 9- and 13-year-olds but decreases for 17-year-olds in reading and no change in mathematics for 17-year-olds. Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential negative outcome of narrowing educational objectives to only those tested on standardized tests?

It may be detrimental to the overall quality of education because it ignores untested and important objectives. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the reasons mentioned in the text why student test scores might not accurately reflect teacher effectiveness?

Students are not randomly assigned to teachers, which creates inherent advantages or disadvantages to teachers. Signup and view all the answers

What does the text imply about the relationship between student test scores and a student’s understanding of a concept?

A test score represents a sampling of a concept but not a whole understanding, so generalizations are required to understand a student's true comprehension. Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest regarding the increasing influence of technology in education?

Technology's integration into educational testing is raising questions about the efficacy of digital assessments. Signup and view all the answers

What has prompted the current emphasis on holding educators accountable for test results?

Public demand for evidence of school program effectiveness. Signup and view all the answers

What does the text imply about the validity of inferences related to a student's understanding of a concept, based on a test score?

Test scores alone cannot provide the true degree of a student's understanding of a concept; it requires judgement and inferences. Signup and view all the answers

What is one factor mentioned that is contributing to the increased use of computer-based testing?

The No Child Left Behind Act created a need for more efficient testing with faster turnaround times Signup and view all the answers

What has heightened public scrutiny of testing in schools, leading to debates and demands for revisions?

The perceived impact of tests on individual rights and opportunities. Signup and view all the answers

Critics such as Hoffman argued that multiple-choice questions may disadvantage which type of students?

Students who are able to detect nuances and complexities in test items. Signup and view all the answers

According to Frederiksen, what is a limitation of multiple-choice questions in relation to real-world problems?

They focus too much on 'well structured problems'. Signup and view all the answers

Which fallacy describes the false assumption that tests capture a person's total capacity or potential?

The 'whole person fallacy' Signup and view all the answers

What is a key concern about using test results as a primary factor in important educational decisions?

They offer a limited scope of information and can be misinterpreted or misused. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended strategy to prevent overreliance on tests and assessments when making educational decisions?

To always interpret test results with other forms of information. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the potential negative consequences of external testing programs on school curricula?

They may lead to a narrow focus on test preparation, distorting the curriculum. Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest is an important distinction when evaluating the negative effects of testing?

Whether the negative effects arise from flaws in the tests themselves or the misuse of results. Signup and view all the answers

What type of skills do aptitude tests predominantly measure to predict school success?

Verbal and quantitative skills. Signup and view all the answers

What concern exists regarding the social impact of standardized tests?

The potential for bias, discrimination and violation of rights of individuals or groups. Signup and view all the answers

In addition to test scores, what other sources of information are recommended for making educational decisions?

Past academic records and other assessment data. Signup and view all the answers

What is a main reason for using open-ended questions and computer simulation tests in education?

To better assess problem-identification and hypothesis generation skills. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of achievement tests in an educational setting?

To measure student performance on specific learning tasks. Signup and view all the answers

What specific skills tend to be emphasized by tests that can lead to criticism and public concern?

Verbal and quantitative skills useful for school success. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of the demand for increased testing on the school environment?

A need to prepare students for several types of tests. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Pygmalion effect suggest regarding teacher expectations?

They significantly enhance or hinder student achievement. Signup and view all the answers

Which criticism is associated with high-stakes testing under NCLB?

It leads to a narrowing of the curriculum. Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential consequence of the misuse of test results?

Unethical practices like cheating. Signup and view all the answers

Which concept reflects fairness in testing related to equal treatment in the assessment process?

Procedural fairness Signup and view all the answers

What does the absence of bias in testing aim to achieve?

To provide reliable comparisons between groups. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a definition of fairness in testing?

Uniformity of test conditions Signup and view all the answers

Why is it said that equality of results cannot be expected in standardized testing?

Different groups do not have the same educational background. Signup and view all the answers

How are high-stakes tests criticized in terms of teaching practices?

They result in teaching to the test. Signup and view all the answers

What role do test results play in educational accountability?

They are essential for evaluating teacher performance. Signup and view all the answers

What is one possible harmful consequence of abandoning educational tests?

Less emphasis on individualized learning efforts Signup and view all the answers

Which criticism of tests relates to how they can negatively affect students' emotional states?

Tests create anxiety Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of using standardized test results to impose sanctions?

Further marginalization of underperforming groups. Signup and view all the answers

Why can categorizing and labeling students based on test scores be problematic?

It can reinforce poor student achievement instead of encouraging improvement Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is critical for maintaining the validity of assessments?

The absence of bias during testing. Signup and view all the answers

How can a student’s self-concept be negatively impacted by testing?

Through the stereotyping associated with low test scores Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the relationship between high-stakes testing and educational opportunity?

Inequitable learning opportunities can skew test results. Signup and view all the answers

What negative effect can result from the self-fulfilling prophecy related to testing?

Students achieving to the level of teacher expectations Signup and view all the answers

Which criticism suggests that test results are misused rather than flawed?

Educators misapply test results for high-stakes decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of fairness includes providing an equal chance for students to demonstrate knowledge?

Procedural fairness Signup and view all the answers

What is a suggested method for reducing test anxiety?

Conducting practice exercises beforehand Signup and view all the answers

Why is the rigid use of classified test results considered problematic?

It can create permanent labels affecting future opportunities Signup and view all the answers

What should be emphasized when interpreting low test scores to avoid detrimental self-perceptions?

The limitations of tests and the possibility for improvement Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential positive effect of well-interpreted test results?

They help students understand their strengths and weaknesses Signup and view all the answers

What criticism is raised regarding the use of aptitude and achievement tests?

They can lead to inappropriate expectations from educators Signup and view all the answers

How can mislabeling students based on testing outcomes affect them?

It can negatively impact their self-esteem and future opportunities Signup and view all the answers

In what way could abandoning the use of educational tests lead to societal issues?

It may reinforce social-class barriers Signup and view all the answers

What change has been observed in recent testing practices to help reduce test anxiety?

Practice tests are now commonly provided Signup and view all the answers

What is often the natural outcome of labeling students based on test results?

It can lead to assumptions about their abilities and limits Signup and view all the answers

What can be a consequence of high reading levels in mathematics story problems?

Poor overall scores in mathematics skills Signup and view all the answers

What has been a traditional view on test fairness for minority groups?

Tests are fair if they predict accurately for all groups. Signup and view all the answers

What is a strategy used by test publishers to address bias in assessments?

Employing staff from a diverse range of backgrounds. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT contribute to bias in standardized testing?

Introducing new testing staff. Signup and view all the answers

What is true about the average scores of males and females in mathematics tests?

Males have higher average scores in mathematics over the years. Signup and view all the answers

What consideration has been made regarding the selection of National Merit Scholars?

Writing scores are factored to balance gender differences. Signup and view all the answers

What does the existence of different average scores for racial/ethnic groups imply about test fairness?

The tests may not necessarily be biased. Signup and view all the answers

What approach do some advocate for to ensure fair test use for minority groups?

Utilizing bonus points or separate cutoff scores for minorities. Signup and view all the answers

What is one impact of differing course selections between genders on test scores?

It can lead to gender gaps in scores based on course load. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common concern regarding how test results are used in career planning for females?

Scores might direct females away from certain careers. Signup and view all the answers

What broader issue does the fairness of tests for minority groups tie into?

Court rulings and social policy. Signup and view all the answers

What has been a criticism of standardized testing in schools?

Standardized tests are perceived as culturally biased. Signup and view all the answers

What can be an adverse effect of biased content in standardized tests?

Lower scores for affected groups. Signup and view all the answers

What trend in educational measurement has been highlighted in recent years?

An increased emphasis on performance-based assessment. Signup and view all the answers

How have standardized tests traditionally favored certain demographic groups?

They include content familiar to White, middle-class students. Signup and view all the answers

What did the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act emphasis relate to?

Using student test results to hold schools accountable for performance. Signup and view all the answers

What strategy has helped reduce gender bias in identifying National Merit Scholars?

Adding writing scores to overall evaluations. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge has arisen due to the push for assessments that include all students?

Ensuring adequate accommodations for special needs students. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects a result of increased accountability in education?

A rise in minimum competency testing programs. Signup and view all the answers

What is one major concern of critics regarding online computer-based testing?

It requires equal access to technology across schools. Signup and view all the answers

Which organization developed a model to improve student achievement for college readiness?

The Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers. Signup and view all the answers

What has been a significant consequence of the pressure for improved testing outcomes?

The implementation of stricter testing policies. Signup and view all the answers

How have technological developments impacted assessments?

By making tests adaptive to individual students. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of testing has raised concerns regarding fairness in schools?

Procedural fairness and opportunity to learn are often unequal. Signup and view all the answers

What initiative aims to set content and performance standards for all students?

The Common Core State Standards. Signup and view all the answers

What is one effect of increased stakes associated with performance standards?

Enhanced school accountability measures. Signup and view all the answers

What primary purpose do standardized tests serve according to educational policies?

To measure student achievement and report school performance. Signup and view all the answers

What might be a primary consideration for policymakers in favor of testing?

Testing provides clear metrics for educational success. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Educational Testing and Assessment Trends

Increased accountability, national/international assessments, standards, and global competition drive more testing.
Online, computer-based testing is growing.
Testing's role in educational reform raises fairness concerns.

Pervasive Testing in Schools

Standardized paper-and-pencil and computerized tests are common U.S. state/district requirements.
Tests vary: machine-scored multiple choice, constructed responses, and hands-on assessments.
Computer scoring is increasingly used.
State testing is required in core subjects (reading/language arts, mathematics, science).

No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act

Mandates annual testing in grades 3-8 and at least one high school grade in reading/language arts and math.
Requires annual science testing in at least one grade band.
Tests are standards-based.
Schools failing to meet AYP targets face improvement plans, choice programs, tutoring, and potential restructuring.
States have additional testing requirements for accountability or accreditation.
High school end-of-course tests are common.
States participate in NAEP testing every other year.

National and International Assessments

National and international surveys (e.g., NAEP) are common.
NCLB requires state participation in NAEP.
Other standardized tests (SAT, ACT, GRE) are used.

Testing as a Reform Tool

Tests act as a barometer, measuring current educational status and progress.
Tests act as a lever, driving educational reform by clarifying priorities and motivating stakeholders.
Tests are relatively inexpensive, externally mandated, and rapidly implemented.
Results are visible.

Five Decades of Test-Based Reform

Test-based reforms are centuries-old, with roots in Massachusetts in the 19th century and with Joseph Rice's 20th century studies.
Growth accelerated after WWI, especially from the 1960s onward.

Federal Support of Compensatory Education (Title I)

Title I of ESEA is the largest federal compensatory education program.
Title I Evaluation and Reporting System (TIERS) required testing to evaluate progress, contributing to a rise in testing.
Dissatisfaction with student achievement led to NCLB's comprehensive testing provisions.

Minimum-Competency Testing (MCT)

MCT programs focused on basic skills as minimal requirements.
Increased from 2 states in 1973 to 34 by 1983.
Florida court ruling mandated notice and opportunity to learn.
The need for more than minimums in performance soon led to other testing demands.

A Nation at Risk (1983)

Documented shortcomings in achievement and recommended testing as a reform mechanism.
50 states responded with reforms.
External tests were widely seen as vehicles for reform.
Testing increased pressure on schools and districts.

Lake Wobegon Effect

A (potentially misleading) reporting phenomenon.
Many states appeared to outperform national averages when using standardized tests.
This was usually due to testing without refreshed norms and increased pressure for high performance.

Standards-Based Reform

Emphasizes ambitious world-class standards & performance measures.
Performance-based assessments (e.g., essays, experiments) were more prevalent.
High-stakes accountability for schools, teachers and sometimes students.
All students’ inclusion.

Common Core State Standards (CCSS)

Created by NGA Center and CCSSO.
Standards in math and English Language Arts.
Designed to be aligned with college and work, clear, understandable, and evidence-based.
Adopted in 44 states, 2 territories, and DC.

Performance-Based Assessment

Resnick & Resnick propose "What You Test Is What You Get" to improve testing.
High-stakes testing shapes instruction, so assessment needs to be changed to properly reflect learning.
End-of-Course (EOC) assessments are now common.

High-Stakes Accountability

NCLB mandated high-stakes accountability at the federal level.
Increased stakes for school performance (e.g., rewards, sanctions).
Impact on student graduation requirements & potential diploma types.

Inclusion of All Students

Inclusion of all students in assessment—a necessity.
Minor or extensive accommodations necessary.
Accommodations should be comparable to student's needs in instruction.

No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act Continuation

Required states to submit plans justifying challenging content and performance standards.
AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress) targets for proficiency by 2014.
Accountability determined whether a school required improvement.

Center for K–12 Assessment & Performance Management

Two major initiatives: PARCC and SBAC.
Initiatives aimed at preparing students for college and careers.
Increased use of computer-based, online testing.
Focus on summative & formative assessments (PARCC) and a more balanced assessment system (SBAC).

Student Testing and Teacher Evaluation

Student test scores are increasingly used to evaluate teacher effectiveness.
Value-added models account for student/school characteristics.
Concerns about validity/reliability remain.

Impact of Increased Testing

Controversy over increased testing's impact on education.
Claims of both positive (improved scores, focus on tested objectives) and negative (narrowing curriculum, test prep) effects.
Teaching to the test versus teaching the content is discussed.

Technological Advances

Computer-based testing is becoming more prevalent.
Adaptable testing, immediate results, and potential cost savings.

Public Concerns

Public involvement in testing and assessment decisions, rising due to demands for program effectiveness.
Concerns exist about excessive testing, potential distortion of curriculum, and social consequences of testing.

Nature and Quality of Tests

Criticisms of multiple-choice items (penalizing critical thinking, focusing on well-structured problems).
Tests measure limited aspects of human potential.
Tests should only be one source of info—a comprehensive evaluation is best.

Effects of Testing on Students

Anxiety increased during testing.
Categorization/labeling might harm self-concepts and create self-fulfilling prophecies.
Standardized tests may damage student self-concept and lead to self-fulfilling prophecies.
Emphasis on testing may result in narrowing curriculum.

Fairness to Minorities

Concerns about test bias against minorities and how it affects opportunities.
Tests might unfairly reflect the consequences of prior societal and institutional biases.
Publisher changes have been made to ensure representation in testing and review, with a growing use of statistical tools and analysis for removing/adjusting for bias.
Potential fairness issues occur when aptitude tests are used in selection.

Gender Fairness

Differences in average scores for males and females on tests (e.g., PSAT mathematics).
Concerns that tests might steer females away from certain occupations due to bias.
Test scores alone are insufficient and should be considered within a broader context.

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Description

This quiz explores key elements and implications of educational assessment as influenced by the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. Test your understanding of the trends, legal requirements, and issues surrounding standardized testing in the United States education system.