How is the use of student achievement data in VAM different than current uses of student achievement data?
A. In the attainment model currently used, student achievement data indicate whether students are performing below, at or above grade level. In the Value Added Model (VAM), student achievement data are used to measure how much growth students make from year to year, regardless of whether students are performing below, at or above grade level. The Value Added Research Center (VARC) has developed an analogy illustrating the differences between the attainment model and the Value Added Model. Please visit the The Oak Tree Analogy to view the three-minute slide show from the Value Added Research Center. There are some real challenges with value-added measures, including the fact that currently they can only be calculated for subject areas that have valid standardized tests. However, value-added measures are recognized to be a fairer use of test scores to understand a teacher’s impact on student achievement because they are based on growth rather than absolute scores.
Related Questions
- The grant application asks for poverty statistics, ethnic makeup, and student achievement data for my school. Where do I find that information?
- One of the key practices identified was using student assessment data to improve student achievement and teacher instruction. What is this?
- How does KIPP share student achievement data with the general public?
