Reviews new conceptions of cognitive and conative aptitude, learning, development, and achievement and their assessment. Argues that different purposes for educational assessment require different levels and models of assessment. Strongly suggests research on construct validity and teacher understanding and use of assessment. (FMW)

Conventional schooling too often ignores the influence of school culture on what is learned in school. Knowledge is situated, being in part a product of the activity, context, and culture in which it is developed and used; this is known as cognitive apprenticeship. Implications for understanding learning and teaching are discussed. (Author/BJV)