This fastback reference analyzes contrasting opinions about educational assessment and testing in the light of available evidence. The reform of student assessment is an essential component of the revitalization of American schools. Accountability issues relate to the proliferation of testing and the increasing use of high-stakes tests for policy decisions. A new focus on cognitive psychology has stimulated innovations in assessment practices. While cognitivists may attempt to go beyond behaviorally developed tests, they have yet to produce convincing and practical methods that can be easily used in classrooms. Technological developments are making tests easier to develop, administer, and score, but critical economic and technological barriers must be overcome before technology fulfills its promise in assessment. As the adequacy of current assessments is considered, three areas of debate arise: purposes of assessment, standards of technical quality, and cost. These considerations are equally important in the development of alternative assessments. Alternative assessments promise a great deal yet require sober evaluation. One figure illustrates a developed test item. (Contains 25 references.) (SLD)