2015 Concern- Standardized Testing
Concern: The impact of increased online testing on student and teacher use of the school library space and resources.
Action Requested: The Affiliate Assembly requests AASL establish a Task Force to investigate how the teaching and learning are affected by the extended use of library space and resources for online standardized testing. We request this investigation includes, but is not limited to:
Status: Both the Affiliate Assembly Coordinating Team and the Affiliate Assembly body approved this concern. It was sent to the AASL Board. Executive Committee referred to the Research and Statistics Committee to explore an investigation of the requested actions.
School libraries have always been used for standardized testing, but with the increase of required online standardized testing the negative impact on the access to school libraries and library and technology resources is increasing. School libraries and computer labs are now routinely used for testing sites, as they often provide access to school computers in many buildings. School libraries are also frequently used as a test location for students who are allowed extra time and as a makeup testing location, thereby impacting access to the school library beyond the scheduled testing window.
As libraries are increasingly used as testing locations, the equity of access for all students and teachers to library programming, instruction and resources decreases.
• Impact on access to librarian(s) and the library programming
• Impact on access to library resources, such as digital and print materials and equipment (technology, audiovisual equipment, etc.)
• Impact on access to library space (including before and after school and lunchtime)
• Find a way to gather and share data with stakeholders
