ETS Secures Contracts to Enhance National Student Assessment

ETS Selected for New Educational Contracts

ETS, a leading global organization in education and talent solutions, has recently been awarded a significant contract by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This contract involves the implementation of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), famously known as The Nation's Report Card, throughout the 2025-2029 assessment cycle. This ongoing national assessment is unique in that it systematically evaluates student performance in grades 4, 8, and 12, particularly in essential subjects like math and reading.

The Importance of NAEP

NAEP serves as a vital tool for understanding educational outcomes across the United States. It not only assesses students’ knowledge but also plays a crucial role in shaping education policies at local, state, and federal levels. The insights gathered from NAEP assessments guide educators, policymakers, and families in their efforts to support student learning and achievement.

Innovations in Assessment

As part of this new contract, ETS is committed to introducing innovative approaches to the NAEP assessments. These advancements are designed to enhance the reliability and relevance of the data collected, making it easier for stakeholders to interpret results and implement necessary reforms in education.

Key Services Provided by ETS

Under this contract, ETS will undertake several specific services to ensure the effective delivery of NAEP assessments:

• Program and Operations Coordination: This involves oversight of strategic planning, managing partnerships, and ensuring effective communication among various stakeholders to support smooth operations.
• Design, Analysis, and Reporting: ETS will develop comprehensive assessments and special studies, along with performing psychometric analyses and producing detailed reports that present clear findings on student performance.
• Assessment Content Development: The creation of test items, scoring rubrics, and other essential materials is a key focus, requiring meticulous attention to detail and adherence to educational standards.
• NAEP Platform Development: A significant emphasis will be placed on creating an engaging, user-friendly digital platform for delivering assessments and gathering data efficiently.

ETS Leadership and Commitment

CEO Amit Sevak reflects on the partnership with NCES, emphasizing the importance of measuring educational outcomes effectively. The goal is to augment the role of NAEP as the most trusted gauge of student achievement. The insights gained from NAEP not only inform educational strategies but also provide a basis for critical discussions around educational equity and access.

Upcoming Developments in NAEP

Looking ahead, ETS is committed to leveraging ongoing advancements in cognitive science and measurement techniques for the upcoming NAEP cycles. Recent enhancements include more detailed descriptions of student skills and the introduction of a socio-economic status (SES) index, which will provide valuable context for understanding student performance.

Historical Milestones

ETS’ relationship with NAEP has been characterized by a commitment to modernization and innovation since its inception in 1983. Some significant milestones in this journey include:

• 2017: ETS transitioned assessments from paper-based formats to digital platforms, revolutionizing the test-taking experience for students.
• 2024: Expansion of device compatibility will allow assessments to be administered on widely used devices like Microsoft Surface Pro tablets and Chromebooks, enabling a familiar environment for students.
• 2026: Plans to transition NAEP assessments to students’ school-provided devices will optimize the efficiencies of internet connections and align testing experiences with day-to-day learning.

Conclusion

As ETS embarks on this new chapter with NAEP, the focus remains on fostering educational growth and providing actionable insights that drive student success. This contract reaffirms ETS' commitment to educational excellence and its vision for a future where every learner can thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)?

NAEP, often referred to as The Nation's Report Card, is the largest ongoing assessment measuring U.S. students' knowledge and skills in various subjects.

What role does ETS play in NAEP assessments?

ETS is responsible for coordinating operations, developing assessment content, and ensuring the effective delivery and analysis of NAEP assessments.

How often is NAEP conducted?

NAEP assessments are administered periodically to a representative sample of students in grades 4, 8, and 12 across the United States.

What innovations can we expect in upcoming NAEP assessments?

Upcoming assessments will feature improved measurement methodologies and the introduction of new features such as a socio-economic status (SES) index.

How can NAEP results impact education policymaking?

Results from NAEP provide valuable insights into student performance, guiding policymakers in decision-making and shaping strategies to enhance educational outcomes for all students.

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