Culturally Responsive Assessment

Understanding the role and impact of culture in the assessment process has posed a challenge to educators, clinicians, and researchers for decades. The research literature indicates that evaluations must be conducted with attention to the cultural context of the individual being assessed, considering linguistic, historical, political, social, and economic factors. In the absence of such information, assessment results—including test scores—may be interpreted in an inaccurate and inconsistent manner leading to inappropriate educational recommendations, interventions, and research findings.