Governing Board Cancels Jan. 28 Hearing But Still Seeks Written Comments on Tech. Literacy Framework for NAEP

WASHINGTON (January, 25, 2010) - The National Assessment Governing Board has canceled a Thursday public hearing to obtain feedback on a framework for technological literacy, and instead is seeking written comments.

Technological literacy is an area scheduled to be tested in 2012 under the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the Nation's Report Card, for which the Governing Board sets policy. The Board is welcoming written testimony on a draft framework that will guide the development of a new NAEP Technological Literacy assessment, and is available online: https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/tel/.

The framework covers a broad range of content and practices related to technology and society; design and systems; and information and communication technology. The draft document was developed by a wide panel of experts in fields such as education, engineering, policy, business and communication, with their recommendations of what knowledge and skills students at the 4th, 8th, and 12th grades should have in technology. The Governing Board is responsible for developing the content and design of all assessments in NAEP.

Written comments must be received by Thursday, January 28. Download a letter (PDF) from Governing Board Executive Director Cornelia Orr that provides details on the framework development and how to submit comments.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress is the only nationally representative, continuing evaluation of the condition of education in the United States. It has served as a national yardstick of student achievement since 1969. Through the Nation's Report Card, NAEP informs the public about what American students know and can do in various subject areas and compares achievement between states, large urban districts, and various student demographic groups.
The National Assessment Governing Board is an independent, bipartisan board whose members include governors, state legislators, local and state school officials, educators, business representatives and members of the general public. Congress created the 26-member Governing Board in 1988 to oversee and set policy for NAEP.
The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is a congressionally authorized project sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. The National Center for Education Statistics, within the Institute of Education Sciences, administers NAEP. The Commissioner of Education Statistics is responsible by law for carrying out the NAEP project.