Diversity and Assessment

Appropriate instructional strategies shift the focus from a single instructional style to a diverse set of experiences to match the unique needs of each student. Similarly, appropriate assessment strategies shift the focus from a single test to a variety of indicators that demonstrate student growth and achievement. Diverse assessment practices will provide more options for diverse students to demonstrate what they understand.

Considerations:

• Reduce gender, cultural, and linguistic biases.
• Provide assessments that reflect the instructional methods and learning styles generally used in the classroom.
• Accommodate the special needs of your students.
• Good decisions about student performance are based on a variety of indicators or assessments, both formal and informal.

For more information:
National Research Council, Mathematical Sciences Education Board. Measuring What Counts: A Conceptual Guide for Mathematics Assessment. Washington DC: National Academy Press, 1993. See pg. 201-219 http://www.nap.edu/books/0309049814/html/