Photo from sxc.huThe University of Kansas has landed a nearly $2 million federal grant to develop better academic tests for students with disabilities. A major overhaul of national standardized testing is slated to take effect in 2014. The new assessments will be administered on computers and tablets, which can be a significant challenge for students with some physical disabilities. Julia Shaftel (SHAF-tell) is with KU's Center for Educational Testing and Evaluation.
“Well, the purpose of the grant is to explore how to make assessments delivered on computers and other technologies -like iPads- accessible for students who are blind or who have low vision, or have motor disabilities.”
Researchers will look for ways to improve the tests and grading methods, so students with disabilities aren't put at a disadvantage. They plan to work with around 3,500 students in six states.