Keyword: Assessment

State test scores are valuable because unlike measures such as student grades, they can be directly compared to other students’ scores and across schools or districts. To achieve comparability, the tests are standardized and go through a statistical process called equating. Key Takeaways Comparability is the ability to compare test scores across time. Standardization helps […]

Test developers collect validity evidence to provide support for the interpretations and uses of the test scores. Validity evidence comes from multiple sources including what’s being tested, how students respond to the questions, the internal structure of the test, how the scores relate to other types of data, and the reliability of the scores. The […]

Assessments report multiple types of scores that have different meanings and offercomplementary information. For statewide assessments used for accountability, states must provide accessible score reports to families and publicly report scores for schools and districts. Key Takeaways Assessment scores should be used alongside additional information educators and families have about what students know and can […]

Test developers have a thorough process for designing tests and items (commonly referred to as the test’s questions). The process includes rigorous educator reviews through the development process to help improve the tests’ and items’ quality. Key Takeaways Effective assessment development starts with a plan and blueprint. Educators who are experienced experts in their fields […]

Students with disabilities and English learners may receive changes to the test administration so they can show what they know and can do. Tests also offer universal supports that are available to all students. Key Takeaways States and districts are required to provide students with disabilities and English learners appropriate accommodations on assessments. Accommodations are […]

State standardized assessments measure students’ skills and knowledge relative to what students should have been taught during the school year. The scores are used to identify schools in need of assistance and can help provide information for school and district leaders to set goals or allocate resources to support instruction. Key Takeaways Through uniform assessment […]