Having just read Richard's clarification for sending messages. Here goes I
hope.
Rol writes...
>The standardized tests may not be measuring relevant parameters. However,
>there are no recognized tests (widely accepted) that do measure a)
>knowledge, b) thinking, c) synthesizing, d) communicating.
Are the tests not available because they are not _possible_? Or because
those who fund the development of tests do not value these "skills"?
In my experience, what is measured is what is easiest to measure... not
necessarily what needs to be measured.
Yes, there are tests under development in many states that are
alternatives to standardized norm referenced tests. These tests not only
measure students' knowledge in content areas but also their ability to
think, synthesize, analyze and communicate. Its called "performance
testing" The leading state in this area is Kentucky. However, there is a
consortium called the New Standards Project that is a multisate effort to
develop and field test these tests.
To get started, I recommend a recent report by the National Academy of
Education called IMPROVING EDUCATION THROUGH STANDARDS BASED REFORM, by
Milbrey McLaughlin and Lorrie Shepahrd, with Jennifer O'Day.
Copies can be obtained through
The National Academy on Education
Stanford University
CERAS Building, Room 108
Stanford, CA 94305-3084
(415) 725-1003
-- "Thurmond, David - Govt. Relati" <DTHURMON@plaza.kde.state.ky.us>