Course Title
MATH 529: Assessment Models and Issues

Course Overview
This course examines topics and issues surrounding assessment in mathematics and science at the secondary level. We envision assessment in terms of its alignment with curriculum and by considering assessment as an integral component of a cycle including standards, curriculum, and instruction. Because assessment and accountability are currently issues of great political and social concern, we will examine assessment trends and practices at the state and national level as well as looking at classroom-based assessment issues.

Course Goal and Objectives
• Review standards-based approaches to formative and summative assessment in mathematics and science
• Explore relationships among standards, curriculum, assessment and evaluation
• Examine the range and scope of assessment practices designed for classroom, district, program, state, and national purposes
• Investigate alignment of local, state, and national assessments with standards for mathematics and science at similar levels
• Examine specific assessment tools and programs for their purpose, appropriateness and quality

Course Content
Unit 1: Assessment 101
• Compare and contrast assessment concerns and issues in mathematics and science
• Explore the priorities and purposes of assessment for individuals, the classroom, and beyond
• Become familiar (as needed) with assessment standards and strategies in mathematics and science
Unit 2: Formative vs. Summative Assessment
• Explore standards-based approaches to formative assessment in mathematics and science
• Contrast the purposes and applications of formative and summative assessment
• Consider the uses of assessment as a learning tool and as a motivator
Unit 3: Elephants in the Room : High-Stakes Testing and Accountability
• Examine the range and scope of external assessment practices designed for classroom, district, program, state, and national purposes
• Consider opposing views regarding appropriate uses and positive/negative effects of external assessment
• Become familiar with the position of national organizations and leaders regarding high-stakes testing
Unit 4: Equity, Accuracy, and Accountability in Assessment
• Identify and address issues of equity in relation to assessment
• Define key features of validity and reliability in standardized testing
• Examine theories and arguments regarding educational accountability
Unit 5: Creating Change in Schools
• Discuss how formative and summative assessment data of all types contribute the task of improving student learning
• Analyze the process of change in schools
• Apply an inquiry/problem solving process to student and school data to initiate change
Unit 6: The Utopian Assessment System
• Investigate alignment of local, state, and national assessments with standards for mathematics and science at similar levels
• Consider potential roles and responsibilities of "stakeholders" (e.g. students, teachers, parents, policy makers)

Expectations for Students
This course integrates reading and reflection, reaction and discussion, individual research on assessment issues, and "hands-on" investigation of current assessment programs.
Discussion: You are expected to bring your expertise to peer-led discussions and to actively engage in individual and group discussions and explorations. At times we will discuss issues as a whole group, but most often you will interact in small discussion groups (6-8 members), and you may be designated as a discussion leader for selected units or assignments.
Readings:. For selected readings, you will be expected to write a brief analysis summarizing the material, including your reaction to it and connections to your own educational setting.
Assignments: You will explore issues affecting equity in assessment; analyze assessment programs and instruments; and pursue research in an area of personal interest. Results of your research will be shared in a discussion format.
Final project: As a summative project for this course you will investigate, critique, and report on the assessment program for a given state in the context of state and national standards. You will present your findings in an online symposium.

Connections to CLTW Core Values
Issues of diversity and equity are deeply embedded in any discussion of assessment and accountability. A substantial component of this course involves identifying inequities in assessment and examining attempts to resolve them. We also explore current research on the purpose and effects of large-scale assessment as well as interventions to shrink the achievement gap. For example, research points to a strong link between formative assessment and increased achievement, especially among underachieving student groups. We will investigate using formative assessment as a pedagogical tool in math and science teaching. Experiences in this course will prepare students to confront assessment issues in their districts and communities.