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There are four types of options to consider in such instances. First, although it is not a perfect solution, the normal curve equivalent (NCE) score, available as an option with most nationally standardized tests, will allow for making comparisons where you don't have the same measure. Be careful, though, to make sure that the test(s) align well with the curriculum as it is being taught in each district. Second, it is possible that some of the districts use other similar metrics (percent passing, percent at different proficiency levels, grade equivalency) that will enable one to conduct some cross-district analyses. Third, in some instances the large test publishers have already done the technical work to equate different tests into a single measure, and this is well worth checking out. Fourth, if the tests have not been equated, one should probably consider doing separate studies for each district, and then examining the pattern of effects across the districts to draw conclusions about the overall impact of the project.
Joy Frechtling,
2/9/2001
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