Tower
  • Assessment & Tracking:
    1. Scanning Systems: The many purposes of upgrading and automating the test scoring and reporting system: a) make test results easily available, b) make the interface with other tracking databases possible, c) make it easier for the data processing staff and a more effective use of their time, d) make it possible to computerize key testing processes, e) make the testing process available for teachers use, so it is easier to get data into the larger system. At present approximately 20% of the key tests and assessments are preformed in a semi-automatic process where generic bubble forms are scanned into a system with limited reporting and exporting capability and no importing capability. The bulk of the remaining tests are hand scanned, translated and inputted. Scantron was evaluated and these three solutions are being considered:
      1. Phase 1, the Software Solution, uses existing hardware for scanning, then exports the data to Scantronís Survey Pro for reporting and further database interface. This would embrace purpose b and d allowing customized reports to be generated.
      2. Phase 2,Survey Pro with Hardware Solution, two new Scanmark 2500ís would be purchased (one for OAC and one for IAC) and its corresponding scanning, form generation and cgi software. This would allow us to create our own bubble forms, customized reports and have the information flow from the scan forms to the reports automatically. With the cgi software we could perform a paper as well as Internet survey. The reporting software is easy enough to use that several staff members could learn it and use it. All TABE, CASAS and TOPS testing could be pulled into this system.
      3. Phase 3, Quick Score Solution, two new low end scanners outfitted with Scantron's Quick Score software connected to computers for teachers to use at OAC and IAC. In order to feed a database, it must be simple and easy for teachers to scan their tests. Though Quick Score is not as simple as a manual scanner, its step by step process makes it a good teachers tool. The goal here is not to completely replace manual scanning, so teachers have that available to them for quizzes, etc.
      4. With these phases additional data processing staff hours may need to be taken into consideration as previously manually scanned projects are moved into full automation.
    2. Augment Course Evaluations: Ordered the new system following phase one and two and created a custom scanning form that is presently used by four departments and two other departments are considering it. We have using the new system for course evaluations since 1999 producing semester reports.
    3. ESL Placement testing: Discussions continue regarding the best means to assess the listening skills of ESL students. Initial building plans for the assessment center at Independence included a permanent sound system (dual drive tape deck, amplifier or receiver, permanently mounted speakers, and TV/VCR), but to date the boom box is the highest level of auditory technology readily accessible in the Assessment Center and in the classroom.
    4. TABE Placement Testing: The plan is to take the present scanned but hand tabulated tests to the next level using the newer scanning system which can tabulate three of the scores. Presently the form has to be verified as quality before we can move on to the next step of programming the scanning system to tabulate and print scores where we want.
    5. NWEA Computerized Assessment: In an effort to find the best assessment tool for our population, we used NWEA's computer based testing software. Though it gave a good snapshot has to where the school stood in the district, the information generated by the test was not as useful for the teacher in the classroom as we had hoped. We could state just by looking at the numbers whether a student was going to pass the AB-65, CASHEE or the GED, but it wasn't clear from the number what had to be done to get them there.
    6. Augment CASAS/TOPs: The goal is to upgrade scanning equipment and augment the database interface, so information is more portable.
    7. GED Testing Center: GED testing at IAC will proceed in stages. Secure storage of testing materials maintaining a database of student records, hiring a designated testing proctor, maintaining scanning software to grade and evaluate testing materials.
      1. GED Testing: Computerized: The GED test is a five part multiple choice, machine scored test. The single exception to this is a 200 word composition which is evaluated by teams of readers at a centralized site. Currently, testing sites maintain a database using a PC which runs standardized software developed by the GED Testing Service. This software permits scanning of the standardized GED test forms using OCR hardware and the maintenance of database of student records. At specified intervals, this data is down-loaded either by disc or email to the State database.
    8. Academic Software and Assessment: A natural benefit of academic software is that the reports can be used as an on-going assessment tool. Teachers receive regular printed reports of their studentís progress through their computerized tutorials. How a student demonstrates their mastery of different concepts within the courseware can immediately help the teacher decide what other remediation may be needed for that learner.

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