MA461 Fall 2000 Discussion Topic #5

Topic: Assessment

Leaders: Bradley Bockwoldt and Molly Mason

Readings:

"Student Assessment and Testing." Northwest Regional Education Laboratory. Educate America. www.nwrel.org/cnorse/booklets/educate/11.html

"Authentic Mathematics Assessment." Tej Pandey, California Department of Education Gopher://vmsgopher.cua.edu/00gopher_root_eric_ae%3a%5b_alt%5d_math.txt

"Recommendations for Teachers" Virginia Education Association and the Appalachia Educational Laboratory Gopher://vmsgopher.cua.edu/00gopher_root_eric_ae%3a%5b_alt%5d_math.txt

Introduction:

Standardized tests have been a recent cause for concern. Problems in equity, educational quality, dishonesty in school administrations, and effectiveness have increased the need to evaluate the testing systems. The instruments and policies in place today no doubt need to be updated, the question is how. The broad spectrum of topics covered on these tests push educators to dilute other educational tools in order to prepare for the standardized test in which their boards seek to excel.

Possible Discussion Directions and Threads:

1. What do you think of California's approach to mathematical assessments? Which would you prefer, alternative assessment or traditional tests?

2. Would the difficulties in performance assessments deter you from having your kids complete these assessments?

3. Is it beneficial to separate higher ability kids from lower ability children? How does this impact both groups?

4. Do you think that poor and minority students are underrepresented in colleges?

5. Should classroom emphasis be placed on preparation for standardized tests?

6. How strong do you think the pressure is for classes to score high on these tests and what are the ramifications?

7. What types of alternative assessments do you feel are helpful, or that you have encountered in your education?

Schedule:

Introduction on web and distributed by Tuesday, October 31

Individual initial posts by Sunday, November 5

Follow up posts/discussion through Wednesday, November 15

Wrap-up posted here and to mailing list Friday, November 17