Measuring What Counts: A Policy Brief

This policy brief is based on a lengthier report, "Measuring What Counts: A Conceptual Guide for Mathematics Assessment." It proposes that mathematical assessment of students be based on crucial research-based connections between assessment and standards for curriculum and teaching and suggests a framework to help those who are struggling with the urgent need to develop new assessments that align properly with the national standards for mathematics education. It outlines the importance of three key principles for any program of assessment that aims to support effective education: (1) the content principle: assessment should be anchored in important mathematics, (2) the learning principle: assessment should be seen as an integral part of learning and teaching rather than as the culmination of the process, and (3) the equity principle: assessment should not be used to filter students out of educational opportunities but rather to determine what students have learned and what they still need to learn to use mathematics well. A list of the members of the study group on guidelines for mathematics assessment, and a list of the members of the mathematical sciences education board (MSEB) are included. (MKR)