Outlines the main findings from the evaluation of the Accelerated Inspection Programme (AIP) in Waltham Forest under three main phases (pre-inspection, inspection, and post inspection). Focuses on the relationship between inspection and school improvement. Discusses the recommendations. (CMK)

Provides the second part of a discussion of classroom research theory and classroom assessment techniques. Describes the use of the "writing process" classroom assessment technique to determine student gains in writing and motivation awareness. Reviews the background to, rationale for, and conclusions drawn from the technique. (Part I is…

Generalizability of performance-based assessment scores across raters and tasks is examined, focusing on implications of generalizability analyses for specific uses and interpretations of assessment results. Although it seems probable that assessment conditions, task characteristics, and interactions with instructional experiences affect the…

This instructional module presented by the National Council on Measurement in Education (NCME) provides guidelines for teachers and other test developers to help them construct test item banks. Setting up an item bank and using it are described, with a consideration of software that can be used. (SLD)

Effects of self-adapted testing (SAT), in which examinees choose the difficulty of items themselves, on ability estimates, precision, and efficiency, mechanisms of SAT effects, and examinee reactions to SAT are reviewed. SAT, which is less efficient than computer-adapted testing, is more efficient than fixed-item testing. (SLD)

Paper introduces a collection of papers on educational assessment, noting controversies surrounding both old and new assessment methods, discussing the persistent set of technical issues that must be addressed by the research community in measurement, and examining work by the National Center for Research on Evaluation, Standards, and Student…

The commonly cited prescription for improving higher education, increasing the time faculty spends teaching, could lead to an impoverished learning environment because it ignores the rich learning opportunities afforded by the full complement of faculty life, which integrates teaching, research, and service. The traditional approach reflects…

Reports a two-part investigation of qualitative differences in reading/thinking found among college students. Presents a factor analysis of the inventory responses of 91 participants that yielded four relatively distinct strands, with surprisingly high weightings on self-doubt about basic skill competencies, and on what appear to be gender-schema…

This study examined whether a teacher-paced video (TPV) accommodation or a student-paced computer (SPC) accommodation provided differential access for student with disabilities versus their general education peers on a large-scale math test. It found that although both pacing accommodations significantly influenced mean scores, the SPC…

This study sought to develop assessment tools to measure students' perceptions of two-way audio/video distance classrooms, as well as self-efficacy and satisfaction with distance learning experience. These measures were subsequently used to assess the relationship between these variables. Findings offer two possible indications. Students do not…

This article describes the development of Kentucky's alternative assessment for students with disabilities, including the content and scoring standards for the Alternate Portfolio. Specific examples of entries at each grade are given. Initial implementation data are presented, and critical issues in the development of alternate statewide…

Demonstrates the complexity of delineating accountability in education by providing three scenarios of educational "success." Concentrates on accountability at the provincial, school district, or school level. Outlines several possible criteria for success: minimum standards, eventual success, satisfaction, relative standings, mastery,…

Describes the standards and guidelines developed for learning assistance programs by the Committee for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS), and those for program components by the National Association of Developmental Education (NADE). Suggests how they can be used to identify needs and improve existing services. (VWC)

Describes 12 things principals can do to raise student performance on state tests, such as hiring quality teachers, making accountability a schoolwide responsibility, aligning the school curriculum with state standards, emphasizing higher level thinking skills, and integrating instruction on test-taking skills. (PKP)

In a coherent educational assessment system, the relation between the cut scores across the grades of a content area should reflect the goals of the educational system moderated by the state of the standards within that system. In this article, we discuss the need for consistent cut scores across the grades of a content area; we present and…