Is There a Conflict Between Universal Design Principles and Depth of Knowledge?
Making assessments accessible to all students has prompted state testing directors and their contractors to incorporate Universal Design for Assessment (UDA) principles in their assessments. While the intent is to preserve the constructs being tested, there is concern that some UDA approaches lower the cognitive level required of students to answer some questions, making it more difficult to assess higher-order thinking skills. In this session, a test development expert, a researcher, and a state testing director will identify item characteristics that may seem to be problematic and discuss ways of addressing the issue. Speakers include Joanne Jensen, Director of Test Development for WestEd’s Assessment and Standards Development Services, Stuart R. Kahl, Measured Progress, Michael L. Hock, Vermont Department of Education, and Chris Johnstone, National Center on Educational Outcomes. Registration with the sponsoring group may be required for attendance. Date and time subject to change b
