How States Include Students With Disabilities in Test Security Policies

• In Event: 35.056 - Inclusion and Accommodation in Educational Assessment SIG Paper Session

Abstract

Test security policies and procedures are needed to help ensure the integrity and validity of a test. In this era, when cheating on tests draws regular media attention, it is vital to consider how possible test security measures may affect accessibility. Some test security policies and procedures may affect test accessibility for some students with disabilities. This study examined how accommodated tests for students with disabilities, alternate assessments, and other related issues were addressed in states’ test security policies in 2013-14. The results indicated all states had test security policies that addressed test security and students with disabilities. However, some policies contained detailed information, whereas the information was sparse or very general in the policies of other states.

Authors

• Lynn M. Edwards, University of Minnesota

• Sheryl S. Lazarus, University of Minnesota

• Martha L. Thurlow, University of Minnesota