Maintaining Academic Rigor: Ensuring Assessment Normative Data Propel Spanish-Speaking Students’ Learning Forward

• In Event: Advancing Equity in Assessment of Multilingual Learners

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of different normative sampling methods when assessing Spanish literacy using computer-adaptive universal screening tool data from third-grade students during the 2023-2024 school year. Pre-pandemic norms are compared with updated approaches incorporating prior performance levels. Results highlight significant discrepancies in benchmark percentiles. Norms reliant solely on School Index (SI) variables show lower scores at key percentiles, potentially underidentifying at-risk students. In contrast, norms integrating prior performance levels demonstrate closer alignment with pre-pandemic standards, crucial for accurately identifying students needing intervention. Findings underscore the necessity of comprehensive normative frameworks that account for diverse educational contexts, ensuring equitable educational outcomes. This study advocates for adaptive assessment practices responsive to evolving educational landscapes to support student learning effectively.

Authors

• Jean Hampel, Istation

• Matthew Jeans, Istation