Adjusting to Test Takers

Computer-adaptive testing addresses individual student needs, but cost and logistical challenges persist.

For Jeannine Ugalde and her middle school students, using assessment data to inform classroom instruction is a regular part of the school day.

Drawing on the results of computer-adaptive tests given periodically throughout the year, the 7th and 8th grade humanities teacher and her students at Oak Valley Middle School in San Diego set classroom goals that target the areas the youngsters struggle with the most.

“It’s hard work coming up with goals, so they feel a lot more ownership of their education,” said Ms. Ugalde, whose 1,050-student school is part of California’s Poway Unified School District. “And now they specifically say, ‘Remember, you said we were going to...