Curriculum Based Assessment (CBA)

A CBA approach links instruction with assessment. The CBA has multiple purposes: 

  1.  to determine skill and knowledge acquisition 
  2. to develop the goals for instruction
  3.  to evaluate the student's progress in the curriculum. 
Based on the performance on a CBA instrument, teachers and other professionals can specify instructional goals. Because there is such a close link between assessment and instruction, it is possible to conduct CBA frequently in order to determine whether to make any changes in instruction or the curriculum. Data collection, interpretation, and intervention are all integral parts of CBA. 

The CBA is useful because it:
  • Links curriculum and instruction.
  • Helps the teacher determine what to teach.
  • Can be administered frequently.
  • Is sensitive to short-term academic gains.
  • Assists in the evaluation of student progress and program evaluation.
  • Assists in improving student achievement.