Abstract

BACKHOFF, Eduardo et al. Design and development of examinations of educational achievement and quality. RMIE [online]. 2006, vol.11, n.29, pp.617-638. ISSN 1405-6666.

The article describes the initial use of a new generation of national tests by Mexico’s National Institute for the Evaluation of Education (Instituto Nacional para la Evaluación de la Educación—INEE) among sample groups of students who are representative in national and state terms. The aim is to evaluate the quality of the national education system, based on achievement attained at the elementary, secondary, and high school levels. A description is given of the objectives and principles assumed by INEE in evaluating learning, as well as the framework of reference of examinations of educational achievement and quality. The characteristics of national tests are defined: criteria, alignment with the national curriculum and the design matrix. The process is detailed for designing, constructing, administering and validating these examinations. The conclusion discusses the need to have evaluative instruments of quality to comply with the goals of INEE and thus help to improve education in Mexico.

Keywords : achievement tests; educational quality; basic education; Mexico.

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