Accountability Issues in Standardized Testing

89.The process of focusing curricula and instruction on predetermined goals is referred to as:

a.high-stakes testing.

b.standards-based education.

c.criterion-based education.

d.norm-referenced testing.

90.The process of requiring students to demonstrate that they have met specified standards and holding teachers responsible for students’ performance is best described as:

a.standardization.

b.criterion referencing.

c.accountability.

d.high-stakes testing.

91.Another name for high-stakes testing is:

a.minimum-competency testing.

b.accountability testing.

c.district certification testing.

d.federal policy testing.

92.Which of the following are advantages of high-stakes tests according to advocates of high-stakes testing?

1.They help clarify the goals of a school system.

2.They prepare students for a competitive world outside of school.

3.They send clear messages to students about what they should be learning.

4.They provide the public with evidence about schools’ effectiveness.

a.  1, 2, 3 4     b. 1, 2, 4       c. 1, 2, 3      d. 1, 3, 4

93.According to critics, which of the following are weaknesses of high-stakes testing?

1.The tests don’t reflect the curriculum being taught.

2.Teachers spend too much class time having students practice for the tests.

3.The tests have a disproportionately adverse effect on minority students.

4.The tests measure only knowledge of factual information.

a.  1, 2, 3, 4        b. 1, 2, 3       c. 1, 2, 4       d. 3, 4

94.Cindy is studying for her Praxis exam.  Using her educational psychology text would best assist her in preparation for which section of the exam?

a.Academic Skills Assessments

b.Cultural Awareness and Testing

c.Principles of Teaching and Learning

d.Personality and Pedagogy Assessments

95.As noted in your text, one criticism of teacher testing is that:

a.Those who fail are disproportionately from minority groups.

b.There is a discrepancy between what is taught in preparation programs and what is on the test.

c.There are too many different teacher tests.

d.Those who create the tests are unqualified to do so.