Curriculum-based measurement

Definition

Curriculum-based measurement (CBM) is an assessment method used to evaluate a student’s academic performance through direct observation and measurement of their skills in the curriculum. This approach connects assessment with instruction by providing ongoing data that educators can use to make informed decisions about teaching strategies and interventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CBM focuses on frequent assessments, allowing teachers to track student progress in real-time and adjust their teaching methods accordingly.
2. The data collected from CBM can inform instructional planning, ensuring that lessons are tailored to meet individual student needs.
3. CBM is often used for students with learning disabilities, as it provides essential information about their academic growth and helps tailor interventions effectively.
4. Incorporating CBM into educational practices fosters a collaborative approach between teachers, parents, and specialists to support student success.
5. Research has shown that using CBM can lead to improved student outcomes by promoting data-driven decision-making in instruction.

Review Questions

• How does curriculum-based measurement support differentiated instruction in the classroom?
  • Curriculum-based measurement supports differentiated instruction by providing real-time data on student performance, allowing teachers to tailor their teaching strategies based on individual needs. By frequently assessing students' understanding and skills, educators can identify specific areas where students may struggle and modify their lessons or interventions accordingly. This ensures that each student receives the appropriate level of challenge and support, promoting better academic outcomes.
• Discuss the role of progress monitoring within curriculum-based measurement and its impact on student achievement.
  • Progress monitoring is a crucial component of curriculum-based measurement as it allows educators to assess students’ academic performance over time. By regularly tracking students' growth, teachers can determine the effectiveness of instructional strategies and make timely adjustments. This ongoing assessment helps in identifying trends in learning, which directly impacts student achievement by ensuring that all students are progressing and receiving the support they need to succeed.
• Evaluate the implications of using curriculum-based measurement for students with diverse learning needs in an inclusive classroom setting.
  • Using curriculum-based measurement for students with diverse learning needs has significant implications for fostering an inclusive classroom environment. It ensures that all students, regardless of their abilities or challenges, are assessed fairly based on their actual performance within the curriculum. This approach not only highlights individual strengths and weaknesses but also promotes equity by guiding tailored instructional strategies. As a result, CBM empowers educators to create effective interventions that address various learning styles, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive educational experience for every student.

Related terms

Formative Assessment:

A type of assessment that takes place during the learning process to monitor student progress and improve teaching methods.

Benchmarking:

A method of assessing student performance by comparing it against a set standard or criteria, often used to identify levels of achievement.

Progress Monitoring: The practice of routinely assessing a student's academic performance over time to determine the effectiveness of instruction and interventions.