Date of Award

12-1990

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Edgar A. Kelley

Second Advisor

Dr. Joe Nicita

Third Advisor

Dr. James Sanders

Abstract

In 1976 and again in 1986, surveys were completed by participating school districts in the state of Michigan pertaining to the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) (developed by the Michigan Department of Education and published annually) testing. The findings of these two surveys are compared in this study.

A comparison of testing practices over a 10-year period can reflect educational changes in Michigan. The purposes of this study were to compare changes, if any, which occurred between 1976 and 1986 in the areas of the uses of MEAP data; personnel involved in testing programs; personnel involved in the development, review, and selection of the tests; and persons comprising the testing committees in school districts.

The surveys were compared using proportions tests and descriptive statistics. In most areas that were compared there were significant differences between 1976 and 1986.

The study revealed that MEAP data are being used more, notably in such areas as curriculum alignment and establishing teaching goals. An increasing number of school personnel are involved in testing programs, their findings, and the selection of tests. The major increases in school personnel involvement in testing were found in the positions of principals or assistant principals and teachers. Fewer personnel were involved on testing committees in 1986 than 1976.

The findings of this study indicate that in 1986, except for testing committees, more personnel were involved in testing. The largest gains were with the positions of those who were the closest to students: principals or assistant principals and teachers.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

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