High Stakes: Testing for Tracking, Promotion, and Graduation
Huebert, J. P., & Hauser, R. M. (Eds.) (1998)
Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press
Abstracted by Michele Costanza
This book addresses the issue of the use of large-scale achievement tests, specifically the study conducted by the National Academy of Sciences, through its National Research Council at the urgings of Congress. The purpose of the study was to put in place "safeguards" against improper use of testing. The testing should not be used to discriminate against students for tracking, promotion or graduation, but instead be used to assess student performance. The testing is also needed to accurately measure student achievement of reading and mathematics.
To ensure appropriate use of tests, potential strategies, findings and recommendations are given. Existing methods, practices, and safeguards are first examined in terms of professional standards governing testing, such as the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing and the Code of Fair Testing Practices in Education. The history of safeguards found in organizations such as these is discussed. Ethical codes and legal challenges offer another form of ensuring appropriate use of tests.
|
