Comparability of State Assessments to the NAEP: An Exploration of Patterns and Predictors Between 2003 and 2009

• In Event: Poster Session 11
  In Poster Session: Division L Section 5 Poster Session

Abstract

Existing research offers different ways to use the NAEP as a common metric to evaluate trends under NCLB, although NAEP and state assessments involve different objectives and content. We treat the “comparability” of state assessments to the NAEP as a construct in its own right, defined as similarity in key features such as the skills that are evaluated and regulations involved. We report on our preliminary analysis of comparability from 2003 to 2009. The average state assessment became more comparable to the NAEP. States with a higher percentage of 30-50 year old high school dropouts and with more conservative political values have assessments less comparable to the NAEP. This is related to higher proficiency levels on state assessments.

Authors

• Argun Saatcioglu, The University of Kansas

• Sarah Marten, The University of Kansas

• Thomas M. Skrtic, The University of Kansas