Abstract

Assessment programs are moving toward the integration of performance assessment items with the traditional multiple-choice items to provide a better coverage of the standards being assessed. This chapter describes the process of performance assessment development including the content, technical, and logistical decisions that must be considered prior to the development of any assessment items. The chapter discusses the processes to be followed in the development of performance assessment items including the selection and training of prompt writers, topic selection, and technical considerations. The chapter also provides a discussion of the development of the scoring rubrics, the prompt-review process, and the ultimate field testing of the items. The chapter concludes with a discussion of issues surrounding the test assembly process when performance assessment items are being included.