Publisher: Educational Researcher, 16
Page Numbers: 22-31

Summary: This article summarizes a case study (Shepard, Kreutzer, & Graue, 1987) aimed at understanding both the context and the effects of the Texas test. Can lessons from the Texas experience inform policy decisions in other states? What were the educational problems and political context that gave rise to the reform legislation? What did advocates and opponents believe the effects of testing would be? What were the effects of the test? Who failed? What was known about the teaching competence of those who failed? What can be said about the impact of the teacher test on the quality of education and public confidence in schools? How much did the testing program cost and were the benefits worth the cost?