Project 1 - The Impact of Testing in Maryland

The objective of this project is to investigate the validity evidence based on consequences of the two statewide tests for Maryland, MSA and HAS, focusing on the impact on the three aspects: students, teachers, and central administrations. Specifically, the project will answer the following questions:

1. What are the effects of the statewide assessment (MSA and HSA) on the classroom curriculum, classroom assessments and methods of instruction? What are the perceived effects of MSA and HSA on student learning? In what way are tests and test results used in classrooms? Are there any consequences that were not anticipated or are considered to be negative influences on classroom activities and student learning?

2. What are the effects of the statewide assessment (MSA and HSA) on professional development activities? To what extent are teachers, principals and county central administrators familiar with MSA and HSA and are they provided a positive environment to support the effective use of assessments? In what ways are tests and test results used in schools or districts for decision-making? Are there consequences that were not anticipated or are considered to be negative influences on teachers, principals and central administration?

3. What are the effects of the statewide assessment (MSA and HSA) on student's, teacher's and principal's motivation and stress? Do the psychological reactions vary by school characteristics (as related to the percentage of free or reduced lunch, school achievement level, and grade level)? What are the county central administration and the school principals ‘beliefs and attitudes toward MSA and HSA? Do they vary by school characteristics (FARMS, performance level, and grade)? Are there consequences that were not anticipated or are considered to be negative influences on the instructional effort?

Click Below to Download the Results

1. The Impact of Testing in Maryland : Interaction tables
2. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of the Survey Data: Item loadings

Last Modified: Jun 2010