MEGA Cross Categorical Special Education Practice Test

What type of tests should be administered to minimize bias for an English language learner suspected of having a learning disability?

1. formal and informal tests in the student's primary language

2. nonverbal assessments in an environment free of distraction

3. standardized achievement tests in English

4. adaptive behavior assessments in a variety of settings

The correct answer is: formal and informal tests in the student's primary language

To minimize bias for an English language learner suspected of having a learning disability, formal and informal tests administered in the student's primary language are most appropriate. Conducting assessments in the student’s primary language ensures that language proficiency does not interfere with the evaluation of their cognitive abilities and skills. This approach recognizes that a student's struggles may not solely stem from a potential learning disability, but also from language acquisition issues. By using tests in the student's primary language, educators can obtain a clearer understanding of the student's true capabilities without the added complexities posed by language barriers. This approach fosters a more equitable assessment process, as it allows for a more accurate representation of the student's knowledge and skills in a context they are most comfortable with. Other types of assessments, while useful in certain contexts, may not adequately address the need to account for language proficiency differences. Nonverbal assessments could help, but they might not capture all aspects of learning. Standardized achievement tests in English may place the student at a disadvantage due to language barriers, and adaptive behavior assessments focus on functional skills rather than cognitive processing, which may not directly inform the suspicion of a specific learning disability.