The Development of a Cognition-based Assessment System for Core Mathematics Concepts in Grades K-8

Kent State University, Kent OH

Investigators

Abstract

This "proof-of-concept" project will develop a cognition-based assessment system (CBAS) to help determine the cognitive underpinnings students reach in understanding and mastering core mathematical ideas in grades K-8. The project will identify these ideas in the areas of geometry and whole numbers. The system is comprised of a) the identification of core mathematical concepts in K-8; b) research-based cognitive milestones and fluencies for each core concept; and c) assessment tasks that track different positions of student understanding as students progress. CBAS will be designed for use by teachers in formative and summative classroom assessment, and for use by districts, program evaluators and researchers in evaluating the quality of student learning in various curricular and instructional programs.