3.2 Introduction to Next Generation Assessments
Universally Designed Assessments and Learner Diversity
Support Consideration and Learner Diversity
All students will have access to built in support tools in a universally designed assessment. But it's important to keep in mind that not all built in tools are right for every student. Teachers should introduce students to the tools available in online assessments and allow them to try them out BEFORE assessment day. After providing students with multiple opportunities to use the tool, students should be asked to identify which tools work for them and which tools do not. Having an understanding of what supports are helpful and which to avoid will provide students with the best possible testing outcome on assessment day.
For students with disabilities, educators should be considering the need for supportive technology annually, especially when that students is experiencing difficulty making progress in the curriculum. In order to determine which instructional and assessment support tools are right for an individual student, school teams should use a thoughtful, proactive decision making process. Identifying the right kind of support for a student's success should be based on the student's needs and strengths. Also, working together to identify the barriers a student is likely to face during online assessments, teams can help the student select the most appropriate embedded tools to use. Or, in the case of non-embedded supports, identify what supports must be made available to the student prior to beginning the assessment.
It's important to note that ALL students have extended experience using these supports prior to using them during the assessment. The assessment should NOT be the first time a student uses a support tool.