Some of us in Colorado are very concerned about computer-based GED tests-the
cost is bound to be truly prohibitive for many students-and rest assured
that the cost will figure prominently. Some people assure us that a
computer-based test format  is bound to occur-just a matter of time. The
digital divide still exists, though, and yet, as Jason alludes to in his
question, shouldn't GED grads be at least minimally technologically
proficient? This is a big can of worms as far as I'm concerned, and yes,
it's a great question to put on the table.

 

Stephanie Moran

Durango, CO

 

From: assessment-bounces at nifl.gov [mailto:assessment-bounces at nifl.gov] On
Behalf Of Marie Cora
Sent: Monday, October 19, 2009 5:24 PM
To: Assessment at nifl.gov
Subject: [Assessment 2223] FW: [Technology 2386] The *new* GED & Tech

 

Dear Colleagues,

 

There's been some discussion on the Technology & Distance Learning List (to
subscribe, go to:  http://www.nifl.gov/mailman/listinfo/Technology/)
regarding the new GED Test - some of you may be interested in joining in
there. 

 

I'm forwarding the post that started that discussion off - I am interested
in the questions that Jason asks at the end of his email - what do folks
think of the questions he poses?  

 

"Should the new test be administered using computers? Should technology be
added to the GED as a content area?  Would these changes help GEDTS frame
the GED as gateway to college?  Would a more sophisticated GED test leave
too many people behind who would otherwise have been able to pass the test?"

 

Thanks, I'm looking forward to reading people's thoughts on this.

 

Marie Cora

Assessment Discussion List Moderator

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: technology-bounces at nifl.gov [mailto:technology-bounces at nifl.gov] On
Behalf Of Jason Keith Guard/AC/VCU
Sent: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 1:42 PM
To: Technology at nifl.gov
Subject: [Technology 2386] The *new* GED & Tech

 

The GED Testing Service recently announced an apparent change in thinking
about the content, purpose, and possibly method of delivery of the GED Test.
(See their press release here:
<http://www.acenet.edu/Content/NavigationMenu/ged/news/National_Needs_Alter_
Plans_for_GED_5th_Edition_100809.pdf>
http://www.acenet.edu/Content/NavigationMenu/ged/news/National_Needs_Alter_P
lans_for_GED_5th_Edition_100809.pdf).  Although roughly 40% percent of high
school seniors cannot pass the GED test, the issue of the test's adequacy
for certifying the skill levels of high school completers has long been at
issue. 

The press release describes the new GED as "a new, more comprehensive
assessment program."  Two common areas of high school experience not
addressed by the GED test are computer and digital literacy.  My questions
depends on your interpretation of the GED Testing Service announcement,
because some there appears to be a shift taking place regarding the GED.
Should the new test be administered using computers? Should technology be
added to the GED as a content area?  Would these changes help GEDTS frame
the GED as gateway to college?  Would a more sophisticated GED test leave
too many people behind who would otherwise have been able to pass the test? 

Thanks for your consideration.  I look forward to sharing our respective
speculation.       

Jason Guard
GED Specialist
Virginia Adult Learning Resource Center
Virginia Commonwealth University
3600 West Broad Street, Suite 669
Richmond, VA  23230-4930
Phone:  1-800-237-0178 or  804-827-2635  
Virginia GED Helpline: 1-877-376-9433
eLearn Virginia: 1-888-589-9003
Fax:  804-828-7539
Email: jkguard at vcu.edu
Twitter: jkguard
www.valrc.org
www.GEDVA.com
www.elearnva.com

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