Frequently Asked Questions About Committee Participation

• How do I get involved in test development activities?

  The first step is to fill out and submit an application. You may print an application and fax it to the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson. Once an application is received by Evaluation Systems, it will be sent to the New York State Education Department (NYSED) for review. The NYSED will then send out an invitation to eligible educators.

• In what upcoming activities might I participate? What is the time commitment?

  For test fields undergoing additional test item development, you could be involved in the following types of test development activities:

  • Item Review Conference. At this meeting, committees of educators review newly developed test items. The Item Review Conference is typically a one-day or two-day meeting.
    
    
  • Field Test Results Review Meeting. This meeting is held once newly developed test items have been field tested. At this meeting, committees of educators review the results of the field test and, if needed, revise items. The Field Test Results Review Meeting is typically a one-day meeting.
    
    

• What if I cannot attend all of these meetings?

  Although we would welcome your participation at each test development meeting, we understand that educators have many other commitments and may not be able to attend all of the meetings. Your participation in any of the meetings would be very much appreciated.

• How does my school district get reimbursed for a substitute teacher? How do I get reimbursed for my mileage?

  You will receive reimbursement forms and information about completing them at each meeting.

• Do I make my own hotel reservations?

  We make all hotel reservations for committee members and provide you with a confirmation letter.

• I have colleagues who would like to attend. May I invite them to participate?

  All participants need to submit an application, which must be approved by the NYSED. Please ask your colleague to obtain and submit an application from this Web site.

• If I submit an application, how soon will I know if I am invited to participate?

  Generally, you will have an answer within two weeks of receipt of your application. You will receive the answer by phone, fax, e-mail, or letter.