September 2001 — Software/Courseware
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Focus on Assessment Tools
Administrators can set parameters for tests by defining elements such as time limits, template styles and end-of-test procedures. The test author can also preview the session prior to administration as well as deliver assessments via Microsoft Windows-based PCs, CD-ROM, LAN, Intranet or via the Internet. And though several pre-defined reports are available with eZ.exam - such as participant, survey and gradebook reports - you also have the option of creating customized reports. eZ.exam can be used to deliver exams, quizzes and surveys to learners of all ages.Instructors can use the software to create and administer practice tests, diagnostic testing and pre-evaluation assessments. Other applications include pre-course skills assessments, end of chapter exams, mid-term and final exams to include remote learners and product knowledge aptitude tests. In addition, eZ.exam comes with several security options, including specific login names and passwords, time windows, and restrictions on the number of times a student can take a test. The software also prevents students from closing the test when using other computer applications or surfing the Web while the assessment is in progress.
Offering a wide range of content and assessment options, CTB/McGraw-Hill has released the newest member to its comprehensive family of assessment tools, TerraNova, The Second Edition - also known as the TerraNova CAT because it's the sixth edition of the California Achievement Tests (CAT). TerraNova CAT presents thematic real-world content and rich graphics with the look and feel of today's instructional materials that reflect educational material and encourage students to do their best. The new series uses multiple measures to ensure reliable assessment of a wide range of skills and proficiency levels in reading/language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The assessment gives teachers targeted information to help enhance classroom instruction and improve student achievement.
CTB's unique scoring process integrates selected-response and open-ended questions to show what students truly know and can do. With TerraNova, users receive useful, understandable information that teachers can present to parents, students, administrators and public officials. TerraNova CAT's decision-making assets include: comprehensive score reports with easy-to-understand graphics, including customized reports directly aligned with your curriculum or standards; reports and data on CD-ROM for easy archiving,data retrieval and report output; observations and general interpretations of test results in reports presenting comprehensive data; and new information packages and options to meet specific decision-making needs.
Teachers and administrators can now plan, assess and report using state or provincial standards with Media-X Systems, Inc.'s eTeacher3 desktop/handheld bundle, which provides an integrated approach to standards-based curriculum planning and assessment. The eT3 bundle includes an intuitive Windows/Mac application combined with an integrated user-friendly Palm OS module (eTeacher3 Mobile). The Palm application allows teachers to assess students using rubrics, checklists, anecdotal comments, marks or levels. It provides daily attendance, built-in e-mail, student demographics, daily note taking and an optional day book module.
