For states that are adopting the Common Core Standards (CCS), dataMetrics Software, a Massachusetts-based company specializing in test processing and reporting software for K–12 educational institutions, is making it easier to align locally created test items to those standards. dataMetrics’ TestWiz system now comes pre-loaded with the Common Core Standards in English and math.
The integration of the new standards, along with the system’s reporting engine, will assist teachers in viewing the effects of their instruction in terms of the new standards.
“We are finding that districts in the states that have agreed to adopt the CCS some time in the future, are already beginning to adjust their curriculum to meet the new standards,” said Naomi Menikoff, President of dataMetrics Software, Inc. “Those using the ETS item bank within TestWiz have a choice when selecting items for their local tests – by CCS or by their State’s standards. And, those who use TestWiz for locally developed tests have a similar choice when creating the test specifications for local processing. This will make it easy to shift instruction to the new CCS, when teachers are ready.”
The CCS Initiative is a state-led effort coordinated by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). The standards were developed in collaboration with teachers, school administrators, and experts, to provide a clear and consistent framework to prepare our children for college and the workforce. The standards are based on the highest, most effective models from states across the country and countries around the world, and provide teachers and parents with a common understanding of what students are expected to learn.
To address the CCS, TestWiz provides teachers with the ability to phase in the new standards gradually by converting assessments once aligned with state and local standards to the new standards and track student and class performance on assessments aligned to the CCS.
