Reimagining the MCAS: The Need for an Accountability System that Supports Deeper Learning

Though the current MCAS has significant drawbacks, it plays a The MCAS was first introduced out of a critical role in uncovering disparities and ensuring commitment to educational equity, and it has resources are targeted to schools and districts contributed to large improvements in academic in need of support. [...] Time that could be spent ensure cultural responsiveness is a core priority building knowledge in collaboration with peers and in future state assessments? Part one of the applying it to real-world situations is exchanged brief defines deeper learning and explores the for instruction that mirrors the structure of the opportunity for assessment to serve as a lever for MCAS. [...] As a result, there is an opportunity for the Commonwealth to rethink the structure of the MCAS to preserve the benefits of the current system while addressing its shortcomings. [...] Though the MCAS has adapted in an attempt to measure these skills, the format of the exam limits the extent to which such measurement is possible. [...] 6 OPTIONS FOR ASSESSMENT AND ACCOUNTABILITY TO INCENTIVIZE DEEPER LEARNING The following table describes various types of assessment and the extent to which each option aligns with the principles listed previously.