ERIC Number: EJ1145303
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017
Pages: 22
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0300-4279
EISSN: N/A
Using Multiple Methods to Investigate Eleven-Year-Olds' Experiences of Preparing for a High-Stakes Public Examination in Trinidad and Tobago
De Lisle, Jerome; McMillan-Solomon, Sabrina
Education 3-13, v45 n4 p397-418 2017
This study was designed to uncover and evaluate unintended and indirect consequences of using the "Secondary Entrance Assessment" ("SEA") in Trinidad and Tobago for high-stakes selection and placement. A major argument is that the test-taker is central to consequences, both intended and unintended. Data were obtained from eleven-year-olds preparing and taking the examination using multiple qualitative methods, which privilege agency and personal and social consciousness. Methods capturing the test-takers' experience included diaries, focus groups, drawings, photovoice, and photo-elicitation. The findings were summarised by a theory of action and reported in integrated themes. Test preparation was mostly drill and practice. Both test preparation and test-taking were emotion-eliciting events requiring significant investment in positive social relationships to buffer negative impact. The costs and impact of early high-stakes examinations in Trinidad and Tobago might be higher than anticipated.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, High Stakes Tests, Preadolescents, Student Placement, Qualitative Research, Diaries, Focus Groups, Freehand Drawing, Photography, Test Preparation, Drills (Practice), Test Wiseness, Emotional Response, Interpersonal Relationship, Socioeconomic Influences, Elementary School Students, Secondary Schools
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A