In this commentary, I consider the three empirical studies in this special issue based on two main aspects: (a) the nature of the learning progressions and (b) what formative assessment practice(s) were investigated. Specifically, I describe differences among the learning progressions in terms of scope and grain size. I also identify three…

Learning progressions--particularly as defined and operationalized in science education--have significant potential to inform teachers' formative assessment practices. In this overview article, I lay out an argument for this potential, starting from definitions for "formative assessment practices" and "learning progressions"…

This paper explores the methodology and application of an assessment philosophy known as standards-based grading, via a critical comparison of standards-based grading to other assessment philosophies commonly employed at the elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels of education. Evidenced by examples of increased student engagement and…

This handbook is designed as a quick reference for first-year teachers who find themselves in an assessment driven environment with little experience to help make sense of the language, underlying philosophy, or organizational structure of the assessment system. The handbook begins with advice on developing and evaluating effective learning…

A major consideration in the dissemination of any evaluation reports should be the uses of the target populations who will receive them. In the development of evaluation in and for the Piedmont Schools Project, the following uses have been found critical: formative evaluation on a continuing planned basis and on request from program and…

Three basic evaluation styles are discussed: (1) Process approach--organization, comportment and presentation; (2) Presage--qualifications, personal qualities, physical appearance; (3) Product--learning outcomes. The pros and cons of these evaluation styles are presented, and suggestions are made to make evaluation more useful in determining…

This two-part paper describes the working assumptions approach to early program evaluation and illustrates the approach with a study of a new social science curriculum in American ethnic pluralism for community colleges. Part I begins by providing a rationale for early program evaluation and describing the working assumptions approach as a model…

Paper covers some general evaluation issues including the relationship of evaluation and educational research. Reprints available from the author at the Educational Testing Service, Princeton, N.J. (Author/MB)

A guideline to a two-stage outcome evaluation for individual courses within a total Learning Resources Center project is presented. Program and process variables are taken into consideration with emphasis on evaluating change in student behavior. The use of behavioral objectives is cited as the best means of determining the difference between…

Describes foundation and development of a performance-based teacher evaluation method developed in Missouri which makes mastery learning the basis for outcomes of instruction. Eight discrete parts of the teaching act characterizing successful teaching, four criteria important in performance-based evaluation development, and four definable phases…

Basic guidelines, evaluation techniques, and models are suggested for secondary and university teachers struggling with development education, an area of education that demands innovation and individual approaches. Evaluation can take two approaches: formative and summative. Summative testing observes overall results, tests teacher effectiveness,…

Part 1 of a series of 13 instructor's manuals for the competency based training of curriculum consultants for exceptional children focuses on the evaluation of curriculum. Three competencies are considered: (1) that a curriculum consultant should be capable of providing leadership in designing and implementing and evaluation approach to curriculum…

This 10 unit manual introduces the concepts and components of mastery learning and helps instructors organize mastery learning courses of their own. Unit I introduces mastery learning as a process involving the development and presentation of objectives, homework, formative evaluation, corrective assignments, evaluation retakes, and summative…

The Quality Assurance Model for Process Evaluation has been developed by the Southwestern Cooperative Educational Laboratory. It provides educational administrators several alternative techniques for maximizing desired terminal behaviors. By working with project directors, the evaluator helps to assist the program's implementation, providing…

Materials contained in this career education implementation guide (one in a series of seven) provide concrete examples of how to evaluate a comprehensive career education program using the approach of applying logic and objectivity to the process of judging the merits of career education activities. Major topics discussed include the following:…