Common Core and Cut Scores: We Have A Problem, Houston
So, one of the issues that has long been troubling to me is the determination and use of cut scores related to the Common Core testing, regardless of who/which entity is doing the testing and the scoring. A recent article highlights what is occurring at PARCC.
All I can say is: Yipes. First, the scoring is not exactly clear and what is troubling is that it is hard to know what the scores across a range mean -- after the floor is set (the cut score). What is excellent? What is college ready? What is satisfactory but not acceptable for post-graduation progression? How reliable is the scoring? How predictive?
Here's another key problem: how will those in higher ed community use these cut scores and will the actual number matter or just the reality that a student has "hit the floor score" so to speak? Will Admissions Offices use them to replace the SAT or ACT scores perhaps? Might professors use them for placement purposes -- replacing ACCUPLACER? Might colleges use them to redesign course content and course progression?
Bottom line, it seems that while we complain frequently about the lack of alignment between high school and college, we have an opportunity to reflect on alignment and do it right with this Common Core testing and cut scoring and actual scores. But, the linkages are not happening. Ponder whether testing for testing sake is enough. Answer: NO.
So, we need to link PARCC and other testing groups with college groups for meaningful conversation about the scoring and its validity, its utility and its impact long and short term. I understand a few such conversations are happening but they need to happen at the Presidential and senior leadership levels too -- so that there can be institutional buy in and action.
The fuzziness surrounding the "next steps" leaves me knowing we have a problem....
Business and Finance
9 年In mobile economies, and migrant workers (even if full citizens), it's nice to have a continuity of education for children of relocating families. I found that out as I relocated - just within the midwest! Core NATION-WIDE K-12 educational standards will help!!
Gospel Preacher, NC Real Estate Broker, Contributor at LinkedIn Pulse
9 年Bryan Williams, no I am not suggesting privatization. I am suggesting a return to local funding, local control. Central planning is the worst kind of tyranny. Jefferson said the "the government that governs best governs least." Education is a shared responsibility of everyone EXCEPT the "wizards of smart" in Washington and our state capitals. It has always struck me as bizarre that the left decries the "monopolies" and yet embraces the biggest monopoly of all - big education. Richard Nixon's "revenue sharing" was the worst idea that ever came out of Washington.
Gospel Preacher, NC Real Estate Broker, Contributor at LinkedIn Pulse
9 年Until the federal and state governments get out of the education business, we are just rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic.