To support districts with technology downloads and installing the Test Management System for the computer-based ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 assessment, the Maine DOE is offering Preparing Technology for WIDA ACCESS for ELL 2.0 Assessment Webinar Thursday, Nov. 19 at noon.
The webinar is a Maine specific webinar focused on preparing for the WIDA ACCESS test, which will be administered online for the first time this year. Representatives from Data Recognition Corporation (DRC), WIDA and the Maine DOE will walk attendees through the creation of a simple local server that is required of all districts administering the assessment.
While this session is technical in nature, it is designed to be understandable by non-technical people who may be supporting this assessment around the state. We intend to walk participants will be guided through the steps of creating an actual machine using just a basic Mac or PC laptop or desktop. Participants with their own laptops can expect to leave, well on their way, to having made an operational caching server. We will also demonstrate how to add the Insight test software onto student/lab Macs and PCs, and how to connect those devices to your caching server.
While not required, it is helpful if you pre-register, since there are a few preliminary steps we can share that will make the process go more smoothly. Participants can attend the webinar virtually or at a regional host site. Locations will be announced on Monday, Nov. 16 based on the completion of this registration form: http://goo.gl/forms/zFMlS963tH
Please note that this webinar will focus on the creation of the physical caching server and the configuration of testing devices – not on test administration practices (e.g. scheduling, training of staff, proctoring).
The webinar is expected to last one and a half hours. There will be designated times for questions from the field.
ME Tech Coord. Training for WIDA ACCESS for ELLs 2.0
Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015 at 12:00 p.m.
Join WebEx meeting
Meeting Number: 809 029 550
Meeting Password iXXRGVq8
Join by phone
1-855-244-8681 Call-in toll-free (US/Canada)
1-650-479-3207 Call-in toll-free (US/Canada)
Access Code 809 029 550
While the computer adaptive nature of the new assessment necessitates additional local and State planning, it will ultimately help to improve teaching and learning in Maine by better allowing English learners to be demonstrate their proficiency in the English language.
For technical assistance related to technology components of the ACCESS for ELLS 2.0, please contact wida@datarecognitioncorp.com. For additional ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 assessment information including calendars, administration materials and other resources, visit: http://www.maine.gov/doe/access/ or contact ESL/Bilingual Programs Specialist Nancy Mullins at nancy.mullins@maine.gov or call 624-6788.