Performance-Based Assessment as Basis for Curriculum Enhancement: A Basic Qualitative Study
Date
2023-02-10
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Abstract
Performance-based assessment (PBA) is a test type critical in determining students' proficiency in Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) Algebra 1. Students' poor performance in the PBA section, comprising half of the test, resulted in the continued decline of the MCAP Algebra 1 proficiency rate since 2015 (Maryland State Department of Education, 2020). The purpose of this basic qualitative study was to explore teachers' perceptions to help explain why students struggle in PBA, leading to the decline of the MCAP Algebra 1 proficiency rate since 2015. Engagement and Dewey's progressivism theories served as the study's foundation. The literature gap indicates no relevant study specific to PBA and math proficiency. Research questions focused on teachers' perceptions to help explain why students struggle in PBA and strategies to improve students' Algebra 1 MCAP proficiency. Data collection used an in-depth semi-structured interview via Zoom meeting portal from 15 Algebra 1 teachers from 10 county high schools in Maryland based on the selection criteria: current Algebra 1 teachers with at least two years of experience teaching Algebra 1. The semi-structured interview recordings were transcribed using Otter.ai, sorted, and coded for thematic analysis, identifying overarching and sub-themes within the data set. Study findings are: (a) PBA is a critical component in determining college and career readiness, (b) students lack the foundational knowledge and skills in performing PBA, and (c) curriculum enhancement strategies may help improve students' PBA performance. The school system may consider suggested curriculum enhancement and development strategies to improve students' MCAP Algebra 1 proficiency.
Description
This qualitative study explored the teachers' perceptions to explain why students struggle with performance-based assessment (PBA), leading to the decline of the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) Algebra 1 proficiency rate since 2015.
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