2. Case Study: Assessment Procedures in Special Education
Assessment is integral to the decision-making and teaching of special educators and special educators use multiple types of assessment information for a variety of educational decisions. Special educators use the results of assessments to help identify exceptional learning needs and to develop and implement individualized instructional programs, as well as to adjust instruction in response to ongoing learning progress. Special educators understand the legal policies and ethical principles of measurement and assessment related to referral, eligibility, program planning, instruction, and placement for individuals with exceptional learning needs (ELN), including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Special educators understand measurement theory and practices for addressing issues of validity, reliability, norms, bias, and interpretation of assessment results. In addition, special educators understand the appropriate use and limitations of various types of assessments. Special educators collaborate with families and other colleagues to assure non-biased, meaningful assessments and decision-making. Special educators conduct formal and informal assessments of behavior, learning, achievement, and environments to design learning experiences that support the growth and development of individuals with ELN. Special educators use assessment information to identify supports and adaptations required for individuals with ELN to access the general curriculum and to participate in school, system, and statewide assessment programs. Special educators regularly monitor the progress of individuals with ELN in general and special curricula. Special educators use appropriate technologies to support their assessments. (8)

Case Study Educational Assessment Report:
• Assess one school-age student (preferably ages 6-16) using one comprehensive and one diagnostic instrument.
• Test the child and hand score all tests.
• Provide a computer evaluation of the raw scores of one of the instruments. The assessment data will be the basis of your report.
• Turn in all protocols (hand scored) as well as a copy of the computer scored report of results. Follow the Educational Assessment Report format that was provided to you in your course work. Note that most of the assessment instruments are available from the Special Education Department at Bridgewater State College.

SAMPLE: Assessment Report completed for DR. Katz by Copel Fall 2007

SAMPLE: Assessment Report completed for Dr. McMillan Summer 07