ERIC Research Brief for Teachers

Abstract

Over the past several years, a large body of research has accrued on the uses and techniques of curriculum-based assessment (CBA). Although its primary importance is as a tool for instructional planning and decision-making, this approach to collecting data on student performance supplies information that also can be used to support referrals to special education, determine appropriate placement, and document special education effectiveness. CBA data provides clear information for communicating with parents and administrators, and provides data for IEP meetings by summarizing the student's present level of performance, suggesting goals and objectives, and documenting pupil progress. Research indicates that, when used for instruction, CBA can lead to greater student achievement. This brief will provide a synopsis of the steps in curriculum-based assessment and a list of resources that provide more detail on the method and applications of CBA.

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References

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