Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Exam

Which additional tool could be permitted to assist during the test-taking process?

1. Personal notes from the teacher

2. Calculators, dictionaries, or computers

3. Peer assistance during the testing

4. Unlimited reference materials

The correct answer is: Calculators, dictionaries, or computers

The option that includes calculators, dictionaries, or computers is the most appropriate choice as an additional tool permitted during the test-taking process. These tools are considered to enhance students' ability to understand and process the material being assessed without providing unfair advantages. Calculators can aid students in performing complex calculations, allowing them to focus on problem-solving rather than getting bogged down by arithmetic. Dictionaries may help students clarify difficult vocabulary, ensuring that they fully comprehend the questions and prompts. Computers can facilitate research or provide access to educational software and resources that align with the test's objectives. In contrast, personal notes from a teacher could introduce bias and inconsistencies since not all students have access to the same resources. Peer assistance during testing might compromise the integrity of the assessment, as it could lead to collaboration that disrupts individual evaluation. Unlimited reference materials can severely impact the assessment's efficacy by potentially allowing students to answer questions without demonstrating their own understanding or knowledge. Thus, while tools such as calculators, dictionaries, or computers support learning, they maintain the assessment's standard of evaluating the student's own capabilities.