Children with disabilities face assessment bias due to the assessments being designed for typical children. What is the BEST way to reduce this type of test bias?

Implementing modifications and accommodations is the most effective way to reduce assessment bias for children with disabilities who encounter challenges with standardized tests designed for typical children. These modifications and accommodations allow assessments to be more accessible and relevant to the individual needs of students with disabilities.

For instance, by providing extended time, alternative formats, or adjusted testing environments, educators can create a fairer assessment situation that accurately reflects the student’s knowledge and skills rather than their disabilities. This process helps level the playing field, ensuring that students can demonstrate what they have learned without being disadvantaged by the testing format.

Enhancing assessment methods through adjustments addresses the diverse needs of students, ultimately resulting in more valid outcomes. By focusing on how assessments can be adapted, educators can mitigate bias and improve the reliability of the results they obtain from students with disabilities.