Adaptive Testing

In response to the states' interest in adaptive testing and their request that computer delivery be a key component of any future comprehensive assessment system, ETS, along with collaborators Pearson and the College Board, addressed in detail the topic of adaptive testing in a white paper made available to the states. This paper highlights important considerations related to the use of adaptive testing within a common core assessment system, particularly as used for summative purposes.

Transitioning to computer-based test delivery can present challenges to states because of the wide range of choices available to them. ETS has released a white paper, Practical Considerations in Computer-Based Testing that provides information on computer-based testing options like item look and function, test forms and score reporting.

ETS has conducted research on the theory and practice of adaptive testing for more than 40 years, inventing one of the first commercially available adaptive tests in 1986.