Schedule

Event Description

Morning Session:

Assessment of English Language Learners: A New Direction in Evaluation Using the Ortiz PVAT

This presentation will outline an evidenced-based approach to evaluating English learners emphasizing methods for using tests in a non-discriminatory manner. The presentation will provide an introduction to the content, administration, scoring, and interpretation of the Ortiz PVAT and its application in evaluation. Participants will learn how to use the Ortiz PVAT through case study examples and will receive sample Ortiz PVAT materials.*

Afternoon Sessions:

Language and Cultural Awareness: Evaluation and Report Writing

As Indiana continues to be a home for families from different cultures with different languages, it has brought a complexity to school psychology and others in related fields. It is impossible to know every culture and language. So what is a school psychologist to do when faced with such challenges? Join Kristie Carter, a school psychologist and an adult dual language learner with ample experiences of dual language learning, to explore ways to be more sensitive to cultural and language differences, learn about tools to assist with the evaluation process, and discuss ways to write reports for these students.

Join us!

Registration and Event Details

All attendees are asked to register in advance to ensure you receive a certificate of attendance. Lunch will be provided.

For questions, please contact your Region V Representative, Amanda Slonaker, at aslonaker@zcs.k12.in.us.

*Assessment of English Language Learners: A New Direction in Evaluation Using the Ortiz PVAT

This presentation will outline an evidenced-based approach to evaluating English learners emphasizing methods for using tests in a non-discriminatory manner. The Ortiz PVAT is the first receptive vocabulary assessment administered digitally that can be used to fairly and accurately assess both English speakers and English learners. This presentation provides an introduction to the content, administration, scoring, and interpretation of the Ortiz PVAT and its application in evaluation. By controlling for an individual’s exposure to learning English, the Ortiz PVAT makes it possible to evaluate an individual from any language background and determine whether English vocabulary acquisition is following the expected pattern of native or second language acquisition or may instead suggest a language problem or disorder. In this way, the Ortiz PVAT represents a new direction in assessment, allowing practitioners to make valid diagnostic and intervention decisions for any individual, including English learners. Participants will learn how to use the Ortiz PVAT through case study examples and will receive sample Ortiz PVAT materials.

By the conclusion of this presentation, participants will have acquired the following practical skills that can be directly applied in the educational and private settings:

1. Describe the Ortiz PVAT, its key features, and psychometric properties
2. Discuss the concept of a “true peer” comparison for English learners and explain the dual-norming structure of the Ortiz PVAT and its relevance to testing.
3. Explain the administration and interpretation process of the Ortiz PVAT
4. Demonstrate understanding of the Ortiz PVAT through the application of a case-study using the recommended interpretation process