Beyond the Bell curve

Abstract

One of the most important, and neglected, aspects of the school assessment process is the feedback phase. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the extent to which feedback is being conducted, training in feedback, and the types of feedback practices used in school settings. One hundred thirty-two school assessment professionals were surveyed, and results suggest that most believe in the importance of test feedback and are utilizing it. Results of this study also indicate that test feedback practices are lacking with most practitioners simply plotting scores on a bell curve. Recommendations for more culturally responsive, meaningful, and ethical feedback practices are discussed, including how to incorporate therapeutic assessment values and techniques in school settings.