NAEP: English Language Learner Student Achievement and Online Tools

• In Event: Informing Public Scholarship on Multilingual and English Language Learners: Understanding Federal Education Policies and Data

Abstract

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is the only nationally representative and continuing assessment of what America's students know and can do in various subject areas. As such, NAEP data provide reliable comparisons of performance among states, urban districts, public and private schools, and student demographic groups including English language learners (ELLs). Assessments are conducted periodically in mathematics, reading, science, writing, the arts, civics, economics, geography, and U.S. history. A congressionally mandated project, the NAEP is overseen by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) within the U.S. Department of Education. Findings are released in the form of the “Nation’s Report Card” and provide a wealth of information for researchers, educators, parents, policymakers, and the media. Results are provided regarding subject matter achievement for populations of students (e.g., 4th graders) and groups within those populations (e.g., Black students, Hispanic students, low-income students, ELLs, students with disabilities). Not all students participate in the NAEP. Results are based on a sample of students from every state. Students are selected on a random basis then school staff makes final decisions on who should participate. A restricted-use license allows access to raw data, which would enable second language researcher to drill down into the wealth of NAEP data, both student achievement and student questionnaire data by ELL status.

It is important for second language researchers to understand how changes in NAEP accommodation policies have allowed higher levels of participation of students with disabilities and ELLs. However, because some accommodations that may be permitted at the state or local level are not permitted by NAEP, the exclusion rates across the states and nation are uneven. After a short introduction on the NAEP and a brief discussion on accommodations and exclusion rates, the presenter will share recently released and trend data on ELL achievement. The panelist will demonstrate how to access the NAEP Data Explorer which enables second language researchers with a robust online tool to conduct a wide range of analyses. The speaker will conclude with a discussion of the content and limitations of the restricted-use data set and how to apply for a license.

Author

• Grady Wilburn, U.S. Department of Educaiton