Benchmark tests are a form of assessment.
Educational assessment is a key issue in the movement to reform education and improve student achievement. Standards and benchmarks are measurable descriptors of student knowledge and expected student learning outcomes based on grade level. They are among the tools used in rating the effectiveness of teachers and schools.
Function
Benchmark testing brings accountability to schools by measuring student learning against quantifiable standards. Teachers use the results of benchmark tests to modify their instruction as needed and to prepare students for end-of-the-year standardized achievement tests.
Time Frame
Benchmark tests are sometimes administered as often as monthly. It's more common, however, for the tests to be given several times a year. The goal is to find out how well students have absorbed the lessons, and to give the instructor feedback so he can modify his teaching in accord with the needs of his students.
Significance
The results of this type of high-stakes testing are often used to determine funding for certain programs, schools or districts. Some districts also include the results of benchmark tests in teacher evaluations.
Features
Benchmarks are statements that describe concrete learning outcomes. Teachers, administrators and academics create these benchmarks. Benchmark testing generally takes about one hour per subject.
Warning
Benchmark testing is unpopular with many teachers because of the classroom time that it takes to administer the tests.
Tags: Benchmark testing, Benchmark tests, learning outcomes, results benchmark, results benchmark tests
