If Not Standardized Testing, Then What?

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This session of four papers and a discussant, followed by discussion, examines more effective assessments than high-stakes standardized tests. Presenters draw from experiences as teachers, principals, researchers, and as executive director of a consortium of high schools using performance assessments rather than high-stakes tests, to describe and argue for the effectiveness of these approaches, focusing here on Student Recollections, Descriptive Review Processes, Portfolios, and Performance Assessments. These approaches are more accurate and transparent, and closer to central purposes of schools in a democracy. A well-known expert and co-author of two new books on these topics has agreed to be the discussant for the session, and will further analyze the significance of this work, as it relates to the conference theme.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Classroom Assessment

Chair

• Wangari Gichiru, Central Connecticut State University

Papers

• Student Recollections - Matthew Knoester, Ripon College

• Portfolios and Public Defenses of Student Work - Emily R. Gasoi, Artful Education

• Descriptive Review of the Child - Kristin M Roberts, Audubon Nature Preschool

• Examining the New York Performance Assessment Consortium - Ann Cook, New York Performance Standards Consortium

Discussant

• Deborah W. Meier