Just as testing generally is not the answer to the multifaceted problems facing contemporary American education, performance assessment is no panacea. Before embracing this new evaluation method, educators should assess the movement's claims, costs, and characteristics. At present, both goals and costs are uncertain. (30 references) (MLH)

Describes how alternative assessment differs from more traditional forms and outlines the forces causing the recent fascination with alternative assessment (demands for accountability, negative consequences of high-stakes testing, and increasing criticisms of standardized tests). Identifies some major issues involving alternative assessment,…

Presents content standards for performance-based accountability systems, which should not be driven by a single indicator. Systems must consider school context and individual student differences; monitor and support equitable learning opportunities, long-term professional development opportunities, and classroom assessments; and allow for…