Mathematics beyond computation: and examination of assessment tools and exploration of an alternative item set
Date
2009-04-14T17:13:43Z
Authors
Angelopoulos, Sarah
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Abstract
This study examined the role of mathematical understanding in studentsâ overall
mathematical knowledge. Participants included a total of two students who were tested
with a selection of items from the mathematics subtests of the Wechsler Individual
Achievement Test, Second Edition (WIATâ II) and a set of comparison items (Pilot
Items). Results suggested that there was a difference between the type of information
collected by the two item sets and that mathematical understanding could exist in the
face of poor calculation skills. Additionally, an Evaluation Rubric was developed based
on the work of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Both of the
mathematics subtests of the WIATâ II were analyzed using the Evaluation Rubric, as
were the Pilot Items. Results suggested that the WIATâ II items were weakest in the
areas of Process and Knowledge Representation whereas the Pilot Items were strongest
in these areas. Findings are discussed within the context of psychoeducational
assessment and mathematics learning disabilities.
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Keywords
Education , Educational psychology , Evaluation , Ability testing , Mathematics , Wechsler Individual Achievement Test , Mathematical ability , Testing , Learning disabled children , Psychometrics