Kristin Liu

Reading test performance of english-language learners using an english dictionary

The authors examined the effects of a simplified English dictionary accommodation on the reading-test performance of Hmong English-language learners (ELLs). Participants included a control group of 69 non-ELL students and an experimental group of 133 Hmong ELLs from 3 urban middle schools in Minnesota. In a randomized counterbalanced design, all students interpreted 2 reading passages, with and without an English dictionary, varying passage order and order of accommodation. Using a repeated measures analysis of variance, the authors found no significant difference in comprehension scores for students in either group under the accommodated condition. However, intermediate-level English proficiency students in the Hmong ELL group who used the dictionary in the accommodated condition performed better than did the control group at a level that was moderately significant. Other dictionary-related issues are discussed.

Instructional Strategies for Improving Achievement in Reading, Mathematics, and Science for English Language Learners With Disabilities

Effective reading, mathematics, and science instructional strategies for English language learners with disabilities participating in state accountability assessments are identified by educators of these students. Hmong students with disabilities indicate the importance of various strategies for their learning in a standards-based, assessment-driven environment. For 72 educators, reading, then math, is seen as the highest importance content area, whereas for 25 students, mathematics, then reading, is seen as the highest importance content area. Several specific instructional strategies are identified as effective through the Multi-Attribute Consensus-Building process, although some variability emerges. Curriculum-based probes have considerable variability in educator weightings, but students weight them as important, feasible, and frequently used. Native language is not frequently mentioned and not particularly supported by students. Implications for further research are discussed.

Universal Design Considerations for Improving Student Achievement on English Language Proficiency Tests.

This article studies accessible assessment design to large-scale English language proficiency assessments that are now mandatory for elementary and secondary English language learners in public schools. Using a modified Delphi approach, a panel of 33 experts from the areas of assessment, English as a second language or bilingual education, and special education provided feedback on features of accessible English language proficiency tests. Experts rated the importance of a set of accessible test design considerations suggested by the literature and were able to add and rate additional considerations suggested by their own experience. Considerations related to the creation of concise and readable text in assessment items received consistently high ratings overall. In contrast, considerations relating to the creation of test items that allow for format changes (e.g., Braille, oral presentation, sign language) showed the most variability in ratings.

Challenges of General Outcomes Measurement in the RTI Progress Monitoring of Linguistically Diverse Exceptional Learners

The assessment for accurate identification and appropriate instruction of English language learners (ELLs) with learning-related disabilities has remained a chronic source of concern. One source of concern that has gone relatively unchallenged is the use of general outcomes measurement (GOMs). The authors examine the problems and challenges of using outcome measures within the response to intervention (RTI) model in the identification and assessment of ELLs who struggle in schools and are suspected of having learning disabilities. They argue here that, despite its importance as a viable form of assessment, GOMs and, concomitantly, RTI may exhibit risks for these learners. In particular, the unique characteristics of ELLs with and without disabilities are often inadequately addressed in current research and practice. The authors review recent educational research on GOMs with respect to ELLs and present current trends in this body of work, along with discussing suggestions and recommendations.

Focus-group research on Minnesota's implementation of graduation standards testing

Abstract Two focus-group interviews with 23 Minnesota educators were conducted by the Minnesota Assessment Project to obtain in-depth information on the participation of limited English-proficient (LEP) students in the first round of the Minnesota Basic Standards tests. Responses to open-ended questions were audiotaped while a research assistant took field notes. An inductive technique was used to identify themes and patterns in the comments. Four important findings may be applied to any large-scale assessment in any state: (a) Participation of LEP students in large-scale assessments is important, (b) educators often do not consider using testing accommodations for LEP students, (c) clear communication about the test is extremely important, and (d) test preparation should not detract from regular instruction.

Large-Scale Assessment and English Language Learners With Disabilities

This article highlights a set of principles and guidelines, developed by a diverse group of specialists in the field, for appropriately including English language learners (ELLs) with disabilities in large-scale assessments. ELLs with disabilities make up roughly 9% of the rapidly increasing ELL population nationwide. In spite of the small overall percentage of students that they represent, this group experiences significant learning and assessment challenges. In the context of successfully educating all students to high standards, it is important for state education agencies, policymakers, and local education agencies to improve achievement outcomes for these students. One of the first steps in improving test performance is to design and implement comprehensive and accessible assessment policies, and consequently assessments, that address the specific needs of ELLs with disabilities. Doing so will give them the chance to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have, thus allowing the test results to more accurately show areas for school improvement.