Effectiveness indices: A “value added” approach to measuring school effect

The Effect of Training in Test Item Writing on Test Performance of Junior High Students

“…Without Jeopardizing Skills Needed for the Workforce of Tomorrow Webster (1994) points out that although there may be problems with testing, it is here to stay for a long while as a means of measuring school and teacher effectiveness.…”

“…Due to the overwhelmingly low scores on the TAAS across the state (Webster, 1994), the Texas Education Agency initiated renewed efforts to encourage teachers to use the TAAS objectives as part of overall instruction throughout the school year.…”

“…Prell noted that test scores are used for grouping of students, placement of transfer students, identification of maladjusted children, vocational and educational goals, assessment of achievement, assessment of teacher effectiveness, and evaluation of programs. Webster et al (1994) define school effectiveness as possessing a sense of mission, strong leadership, high expectations for students and staff, frequent monitoring of student progress, positive orderly climate, sufficient opportunity for learning, and parent and community involvement.…”

“…In the Dallas schools, the teachers are rated for effectiveness based on test scores and attendance (Webster, 1994).…”

The Effect of Training in Test Item Writing on Test Performance of Junior High Students

“…Currently forty-four of fifty states require testing in the schools. Seven of the forty-four initiated a value added measurement component for rewarding teachers for raising scores (Webster, 1994Sanders, 1996). Paris, et al (1991) found that high stakes testing served two purposes that included establish performance standards and drive the design for the curriculum.…”