Monitoring Authentic Problem Solving: MAPS for Enhancing Outcomes for Students with Disabilities. Final Report.

This final report describes the outcomes of Project MAPS (Monitoring Authentic Problem Solving), a project that developed multimedia computer-managed assessment environments to overcome the barriers educators face in using problem-solving performance assessment (PSPA) with students with disabilities. MAPS software was developed for 6 alternate performance assessments at each grade: grades 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, for a total of 30 multimedia performance assessments. The multimedia presentation includes CD, options for reviewing selected parts of the CD, options for selecting parts of the text view, and options for selecting parts of the text for the computer to read/reread aloud. Students represent their responses on the computer by moving items from a sticker gallery or by typing in answers. The interactive scoring system automatically scores the student's responses. A study in which 40 students with disabilities and 40 comparable, same-age students completed performance assessments with and without the MAPS multimedia system, found the MAPS system could provide support for students to show what they know on complex performance assessments. Also, results showed that students could be trained in the use of the software in large group sessions lasting no more than 45 minutes. Appendices include sample screens from the MAPS multimedia system. (CR)