Evaluation Informing Policy: A Study of the Alignment and Utility of a Growth Assessment

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session Eight
  In Roundtable Session: Issues in Assessment Design and Use (Table 3)

Abstract

At the height of the pandemic, the Commonwealth of Virginia (like many states) was faced with the challenge of implementing accountability measures, but doing so with a recognition that student growth would be a fairer marker of educational attainment than conventional end-of-course assessments. As part of the state’s effort to identify the appropriateness and adequacy of extant growth assessments, this study of four assessments in the MAP Growth series was undertaken. Through document review, item analysis, and focus group methodologies, the alignment of the assessments to state standards was evaluated and the utility of data reporting to end-users was explored. Conclusions and implications for policy and practice will be presented.

Authors

• Christopher R. Gareis, College of William & Mary
  Presenting Author

• James H. McMillan, Virginia Commonwealth University
  Presenting Author

• Amelie Smucker, Sweet Briar College
  Presenting Author

• Ke Huang, AMBOSS
  Presenting Author