Psychometric considerations for alternate assessments based on modified academic achievement standards

Because of the unique nature of the students eligible for alternate assessments based on modified academic achievement standards, their varied access to the general education curriculum, and their unique learning needs, innovative psychometric thinking and practice is needed to assure high technical quality of alternate assessments. Indeed, we at least must marshal state-of-the-art procedures to secure strong psychometric evidence to support appropriate and meaningful design and use of these important assessments. The authors contributing work to this special issue, Alternate Assessments Based on Modified Academic Achievement Standards, address important issues and provide guidance to policymakers, test developers, and educators. They also each raise important technical quality issues. This article offers a brief review of such psychometric considerations, in light of the work and comments of the special issue authors.