Abstract:
The Praxis Series of Professional Assessments for Beginning Teachers offers three levels of evaluation. Praxis I tests skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Praxis II tests content area knowledge. Both of these subtests may be used to screen candidates for teaching positions. Praxis III evaluates classroom performance using local assessment personnel and is intended for use after the teacher is in place. Praxis I uses computer adaptive testing and Praxis II involves a series of open-ended essay questions on specific subject areas such as art, biology, chemistry, elementary education, English, French, General Science, Math, Music, Physical Education, Physical Sciences, Physics, Pedagogy, Spanish, and Social Studies. These tests are administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) at selected locations and times with prices beginning at $40 per examinee and increasing for every additional subtest. ETS trains local assessors to administer the classroom observation and will work with state licensing boards to meet their requirements. Reliability and validity are mentioned in the promotional materials, but specific details are not reported.