The Assessment Resource Banks: From National Testing to a School-Based Resource

Abstract

The Assessment Resource Banks (ARBs) in English, mathematics and science have been designed to reflect current New Zealand curriculum statements and provide schools with an ever-increasing range of valid and reliable assessment material. They are available on the Internet and are now established as the main source of school-based assessment material for New Zealand schools. During their early development phase, national and school-based uses were seen as dual elements, but they now function exclusively within a school-based environment. This article outlines the development and present structure of the ARBs, discusses their consolidation as a school-based resource, and suggests future directions.