Research and Evaluation Priorities for Special Education Assessment

Abstract

This article summarizes current knowledge as it relates to three basic requirements for assessment: qualified personnel, adequate tools, and fair implementation. On the basis of this summary, research and evaluation priorities for the attention of the fields of special education and school psychology are offered. These priorities include, among others, defining minimum competency for assessment personnel, determining the population-validity of currently used instruments and their modifications, and identifying sources of bias in assessment.