Focused instruction and implementation of best practices in teaching improves learning outcomes. Multiple assessment tools used according to a well-defined school or district plan results in improved instructional content and design. Educators use results to adjust what is taught. Administration initiates revisions to staff training based on results in order to support the integration of effective strategies to improve learning outcomes. Districts across the nation utilize school-wide and district-wide assessments that include varied testing items of the same skill so that students are offered a fair opportunity to demonstrate what they know and are able to do.
When students continuously perform poorly in applying the same skill on multiple assessments and varied tasks, it alerts educators to a potential learning difficulty that may need further exploration. This may lead to special placement. When the student performs poorly on one type of task, but performs proficiently on another that tests the same skill, educators are aware of the influence the test structure and items may have on the results. Results from multiple assessments reveal whether or not a student knows a skill or is deficient in test taking skills needed for performing proficiently on certain tasks.
Through multiple assessment of middle school students, administration can detect deficits. If chronic failure is observed over a period of time and across groups of same-age students, revisions to the program may be necessary. Poor results in one class as opposed to another may alert the administration to poor instruction and the need for professional development training. By utilizing results from multiple assessment tools, a more accurate evaluation and better decision making on instructional practices leads to improved learning outcomes.
The overall effects of multiple assessment in middle school yields increased quality in the school's programs, therefore increasing students' success. As district leadership, school administrators and educators use results to revise programs and instruction and assign services to students as needed, the educational services of the school continually improve. Evidence of improvement rests in the results of multiple assessments over a period of time.