The OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) provides a framework in which over 80 countries collaborate to build advanced global metrics to assess the knowledge, skills and character attributes of the students. The design of assessments poses major conceptual and technical challenges, as successful learning. Beyond a sound…

A new vision of science learning described in the "Next Generation Science Standards"--particularly the science and engineering practices and their integration with content--pose significant challenges for large-scale assessment. This article explores what might be learned from advances in large-scale science assessment and…

To address the needs and interests of primary stakeholders in a writing program, this article presents a model of "grassroots" assessment that involves instructors from all ranks as well as students in the development, facilitation, and interpretation of assessment results. The authors describe two assessment plans that measured student…

Laboratory courses serve as important gateways to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. One of the challenges in assessing laboratory learning is to conduct meaningful and standardized practical exams, especially for large multisection laboratory courses. Laboratory practical exams in life sciences courses are frequently…

School librarians and other specialists should take note of the new wave of computer-based assessments required by the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), testing that is only now beginning to get off the ground. The new testing necessitates that districts possess the right hardware, install the requisite software, and, in some cases, create…

Talent Development Centers are just one of many tools every family, teacher, and gifted advocate should have in their tool box. To understand the importance of Talent Development Centers, it is essential to also understand the Academic Talent Search Program. Talent Search participants who obtain scores comparable to college-bound high school…

The test review process used by the Buros Center for Testing is described as a series of 11 steps: (1) identifying tests to be reviewed, (2) obtaining tests and preparing test descriptions, (3) determining whether tests meet review criteria, (4) identifying appropriate reviewers, (5) selecting reviewers, (6) sending instructions and materials to…

This article sets the stage for the description of a variety of approaches to test reviewing worldwide. It describes the importance of test reviewing as a protection of the public and of society and also the benefits of this activity for test users, who must choose measures to use in particular situations with particular clients at a particular…

This is a detailed description of an assessment that can be used in a graduate level of study in the area of the school principalship. This has been approved by NCATE as meeting all of the stipulated ELCC standards for which it is designed (ELCC/NCATE 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 4.1; 4.2; 4.3; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 6.1;…

Compares the results of the first and second years of testing in the Florida minimum competency program to show that the program is working. (IRT)

The American College Testing Program (ACT) aims to provide programs and services that assist students in informed educational and career decision making. A variety of ACT programs and services are described, including ACT Asset and Discover. (Author/MLW)

Reviews the policies of the Grossmont Community College District regarding basic skills testing and improvement and the programs that have been proposed or implemented in response to the policies (e.g., assessment/placement, student information, program referral, research follow-up, and learning assessment centers). (DMM)

Presents a history of special services offered to the handicapped student taking the SAT, indicating regional usage of the testing program and usage according to types of disability. Reviews recent developments in testing services for disabled students with specifics as to test administration and interpretation. (RC)

Discusses the design and scoring of the writing proficiency exam conducted at San Francisco State University. Explains the program's counseling system for those students who do not pass the proficiency exam. (HTH)

Discusses the special challenges to community college assessment programs posed by linguistic, cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity in student populations. Provides an overview of important considerations for developing assessment activities. Describes the efforts of North Seattle Community College to address these considerations. (MAB)