DLM Alignment Study

The University of Kansas is seeking proposals to conduct an external alignment study for the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) Alternate Assessment System for new science assessments in grade bands 3-5, 6-8, and high school. The study will evaluate the degree to which the items and testlets represent the expectations in the associated linkage level descriptors. The successful bidder will design, conduct, and provide results for the alignment study, which will serve as one source of evidence to support claims about what students know and can do. The study will investigate the relationship between the linkage level descriptors and the items and testlets. Key aspects of the job include: • Designing and conducting an alignment study to evaluate the relationship between items and testlets to Linkage Level Descriptors • Recruiting and selecting panelists with expertise in science and academic instruction of students with significant cognitive disabilities • Providing training on the design of the DLM system, approaches to testlet development, and the CPD taxonomy used for the DLM assessments • Evaluating the degree to which items and testlets align to the intended linkage level descriptors • Providing results that will be relevant for the peer review process of the DLM Science Assessment System