The experience of the RAND Corporation as it develops the performance test component of a licensing examination for secondary school teachers is explored. The performance test, composed of written tasks that simulate important teacher activities, corresponds to portions of other professional examinations. (SLD)

Performance testing is discussed as a method for teacher evaluation. Although new to teaching, performance assessment has a long history in assessment of other occupations, and much can be learned from this experience. Performance assessments, measuring knowledge and abilities in use, can help sharpen the definition of teacher competence. (SLD)

Teacher assessments should reduce the discrepancy between what is and what should be true for effective teaching and professional standards. Performance Assessment Centers are an attractive way to improve teacher assessment. In such centers, candidates participate in simulated job tasks tapping abilities related to the assessment's focus. (SLD)