Resource
Choosing the Right Tests: The District Assessment Procurement Protocol
June 2023
Description
The "District Assessment Procurement Protocol (DAPP)" report, authored by Erica Landl and Susan Lyons, offers a comprehensive framework for district leaders to select high-quality assessment tools tailored to their specific needs. The protocol guides users through three critical activities: clarifying assessment use, identifying desired assessment features, and evaluating the technical quality of assessment options.
Initially, the DAPP emphasizes the importance of conducting an assessment inventory to document existing tools and practices within a district. This inventory helps identify information gaps and ensure that new assessments complement and enhance current practices rather than duplicating efforts or adding unnecessary complexity.
The framework includes detailed steps for defining the intended use and users of an assessment, outlining key questions to ensure assessments meet district-specific needs. It also addresses the importance of considering various assessment features, such as content areas, item types, accommodations, and score comparability.
The final step involves engaging with vendors to evaluate the quality of their assessment products. The report provides criteria for reviewing vendor documentation, including alignment studies, fairness and accessibility reviews, and technical manuals. It underscores the need for districts to seek expert guidance in this process to ensure the chosen assessments are reliable, valid, and supportive of the district's educational goals.
The DAPP serves as a vital resource for district leaders, helping them make informed decisions that enhance teaching and learning through strategic assessment procurement.
