MEGA Cross Categorical Special Education Practice Test

Which assessment approach allows teachers to track a student’s progress over time effectively?

1. standardized testing

2. portfolio assessment

3. norm-referenced testing

4. criterion-referenced testing

The correct answer is: portfolio assessment

Portfolio assessment is an effective approach for tracking a student’s progress over time because it involves the systematic collection of a student’s work, providing a comprehensive view of their development and learning achievements. This method captures the evolution of a student's skills, strategies, and understanding over extended periods, rather than relying on a single snapshot provided by standardized assessments. Portfolios can include varied contents such as writing samples, projects, tests, and teacher observations, allowing for a holistic assessment of learning. They enable teachers to identify patterns, strengths, and areas that need improvement by comparing initial works to more recent pieces. This ongoing process supports personalized learning and instruction, as it emphasizes individual growth, facilitates goal-setting, and fosters reflective practices for both students and educators. In contrast, the other assessment approaches primarily provide a snapshot of performance at a given time, which does not lend itself as effectively to tracking progress over time. For example, standardized testing and norm-referenced testing compare a student to a larger population, which may not accurately reflect individual growth. Criterion-referenced testing measures a student’s performance against a set standard, but it still tends to represent a point-in-time assessment rather than a progression.