Value-Added Online Course Preview

Value-Added Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison

October 17, 2011

Summary of the course

• Self-directed pace• Divided into four chapters

– The Oak Tree Analogy– The Power of Two (Value-Added and Achievement)– Interpreting Results– Factors Influencing Growth

• Animated and narrated content• Forums to ask questions and collaborate• Quizzes to check for understanding

Main Course Page

Chapters unlock as the

user progresses through the

course

Chapter One – The Oak Tree Analogy

Value-Added is explained conceptually

out of the education context.

Chapter Two – The Power of Two

Why is it important to

use both Achievement and Value-

Added?

Chapter Two – The Power of Two

When we look at both

measures independently, what does it tell us about

the situation of a school?

Chapter Three – Interpreting Results

How are standardized test scores

used to produce a

Value-Added estimate?

Chapter Three – Interpreting Results

Value-Added is a relative

measure. How do I compare my results to the average?

Chapter Four – Factors Influencing Growth

There are many factors

the may influence

growth. Why does Value-

Added control for some of

them and not others?

Chapter Four – Factors Influencing Growth

High and Low achieving

students may grow at

different rates.

How does Value-Added take this into account to

fairly evaluate educator

effectiveness?

Chapter Four – Factors Influencing Growth

Schools serve different student

populations.

How does Value-Added allow for fair comparisons

of growth across

schools?

Glossary of terms

Users have access to a

glossary where terms like

“Achievement”, “Confidence Interval”, and

“Measurement Error” are defined.

Discussion Forum

If you have a question, ask the

experts.

Collaborate with colleagues

across the state.

Quizzes

Take a quiz after each chapter.

Check your understanding and unlock the next chapter.