Challenges Teachers Experience in Making Decisions About Accessibility Options in Instruction and Assessment

• In Event: 51.078 - MTCC Roundtable Session 21
  In Roundtable Session: 51.078-12 - Inclusion and Accommodation in Educational Assessment SIG Roundtable

Abstract

Online assessments have enabled expanded options for accessibility, beyond accommodations, for all students—general education students, students with disabilities, English learners, and English learners with disabilities. This requires teachers in several roles to make decisions about accessibility features and accommodations for instruction and assessments. This study used online focus groups to explore teachers’ experiences with classroom and assessment accessibility features and accommodations, and their challenges in making decisions. Qualitative data analysis indicated three themes: decision-making process; data used to make decisions for instruction and assessments; and constraints in making decisions. Overall, teachers identified what should be targeted in providing guidance and professional development for all teachers to help them make optimal decisions about accessibility features and accommodations for all students.

Authors

• Linda Goldstone, National Center on Educational Outcomes

• Martha L. Thurlow, University of Minnesota

• Kristin K. Liu, National Center on Educational Outcomes