Assessment+Modifications

= Assessment Modifications =  Assessment is an ongoing process that takes place in any classroom. There are a variety of effective assessment practices such as formal testing, developmental checklists, class work and student portfolios. Assessments for students who are deaf and/or hard of hearing will be similar [to the assessment of regular students], but may require adaptations” (Manitoba Education, Citizenship and Youth, 2009, p. 60). The most important aspect of assessment for deaf/hard of hearing students is that the assessment strategy is appropriate for the student. Keller (2005), states that when designing tests, it is important that teachers limit long sentences, abbreviations and complex language as these may be confusing to the student. Even though a test may be designed effectively, assessment adaptations may still be necessary. Some examples of assessment adaptations include supplementing oral instructions with visual or written explanations, providing a quiet testing environment and allowing more time to complete tests. In addition, interpreters may be used to help interpret a test for deaf/hard of hearing students. Keller (2005), indicates that having an interpreter interpret tests can be beneficial as they can often “rephrase a question so that a student is able to better understand the intent of the question”. Whether it be making changes to the assessment environment or using an interpreter, assessment adaptations are crucial to the academic success of deaf/hard of hearing students. 



Formal testing and examinations are not the only assessment strategies used to assess deaf/hard of hearing students. It is important that teachers use alternative methods of assessment that assess knowledge in different ways. Teachers may ask students to repeat what they know back to them, replicate an idea using a diagram or physical demonstrate their knowledge. Alternative methods of assessment are important as they provide an opportunity for deaf/hard of hearing students to express their knowledge in a variety of ways.