1. Northwest Evaluation Association – Measure of Academic Progress

2.  Computer Adaptive – questions are altered based on student’s ability level, also known as tailored testing  The subsequent questions are based on how well the student performs on previous assessments  As the student answers questions correctly, the questions become more difficult and vice versa  Formative assessment that can be given 2-12  The MAP test is developed using the Common Core State Standards  NWEA was formed in 1973. The first computer adaptive test was introduced in 1985. There is a team of more than 7,400 continues to review and make changes to the assessment. Information gained from: www.nwea.org

3.  The MAP test utilizes state standards and common core state standards to develop questions.  NWEA conducts studies to showcase alignment between NWEA RIT scale and state tests  Grade 5 Math Correlation = 0.872  Grade 5 Reading Correlation = 0.789  Teachers and students in my school see a disconnect between our curriculum, our standards, and objectives covered by the MAP test Information gained from: www.nwea.org Wang, Shudong, et al. “Construct Validity and Measurement Invariance of Computerized Adaptive Testing: Application to Measures of Academic Performance (MAP) using Confirmatory Factor Analysis.” Journal of Educational and Developmental Psychology 3.1 (2013) 88-100 “Michigan Linking Study” (2012) NWEA (www.nwea.org/resources/michigan-linking-study/)

4.  Scores are automatically generated as students take test. They are available immediately after student completes the test and are available from the NWEA website within 24 hours.  Ability to retest when there is an increase or decrease of more than 15 points from the last test  NWEA claims that by adjusting the question difficulty up and down, they are better able to measure a student’s current achievement  This is a formative assessment, and the results should be used in a classroom to inform and differentiate instruction Information gained from: www.nwea.org

5.  Multiple task types included in MAP  Covers a variety of objectives  NWEA researches to link MAP to achievement on all state tests by conducting linking studies  In my school, MAP is disconnected from everyday teaching and learning  Utilize over 7,400 to evaluate assessment as part of research team Information gained from: www.nwea.org

6.  Need access to computers and internet  My school has between 2 and 3 computer labs that are utilized each testing cycle  Scoring is automatic  Unfair questions?  Mis-scoring? Information gained from: www.nwea.org

7.  Opportunity for goal-setting  Schools/students can set growth goals to measure progress throughout year or across multiple years  Teachers are evaluated on student growth  Students experience increased pressure due to academic leveling based on MAP results Information gained from: www.nwea.org