Developing an Integrated Assessment and Observation System Aligned to the Framework for K-12 Science Education

• In Event: Emerging Issues and Challenges in Contemporary Science Education

Abstract

The new Framework for K-12 Science Education emphasizes integrating core ideas in science with scientific practices in the form of performance expectations. For science education researchers, a key challenge will be to develop new measures of science teaching and learning that take into account the interdependent nature of content and practice. We report on our initial effort to develop an integrated system for measuring middle school science teaching and learning aligned with the framework. The system includes student assessments and an observation protocol, linked by a construct map that specifies hypothesized levels of sophistication with respect to student learning performances and classroom interactions that could support the development of those performances. We describe our process, progress, and lessons learned.

Authors

• Christopher J. Harris, SRI International

• William R. Penuel, University of Colorado

• Angela Haydel DeBarger, SRI International

• Savitha Moorthy, SRI International

• Eric B. Snow, SRI International

• Patrik Lundh, SRI International

• Carrie-Anne Sherwood, University of Michigan

• Joseph S. Krajcik, Michigan State University