Elicitory Test Design: A New Model for Understanding the Relationship Between Test Item Features and Student Performance on Large-Scale Assessments

Wested, San Francisco CA

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of this project is to conduct an empirical analysis of eighth grade NAEP student assessment items in science from national assessments to determine whether evidence supports the hypothesis that standardized tests capture only a limited amount of student knowledge because of their cultural background. The investigator plans to create a model of test design that would be more likely to extract student knowledge from students of varied cultures by expanding the content of items. The study will examine the experience of American Indian groups, Alaska Natives, and Pacific Islanders. The researcher will conduct an analysis of available NAEP data to illuminate any assessment item features associated with patterns of responses among a culturally diverse sample of student responses.