Classroom Formative Assessment: Investigating Models for Evaluating the Learning of Scientific Inquiry

University Of Washington, Seattle WA

Investigators

Abstract

The investigators propose to develop computer software for scoring and analyzing student task performances in science classes. The project is intended to create ways for validating and scoring student science work accurately and for supporting student self assessment in science. Current assessment scores do not provide sufficient evidence about the impact of the curriculum on student learning. The project would create statistical models for evaluating task performance on how well goals for student learning are met. The general goal is to understand how participation in performance assessments contributes to student learning and to the improvement of general learning abilities. The assumption of the investigators that measurement of student quality of work in performance assessment must be valid and those current procedures are not yet in place to assure the validity of scoring techniques.