1.0 INTRODUCTION.

This work consist of three parts which are introduction, main body and conclusion.

EDUCATION OF SPECIAL NEEDS

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (2018), special needs refer to a range of
physical, mental, emotional, or behavioral challenges thaMEANINGt require additional support
and accommodations to help individuals reach their full potential.

MEANING OF FORMAL AND INFORMAL ASSASSEMENT APPROACH.

According to Popham (2009), formal assessment refers to the systematic process of gathering,
analyzing, and interpreting information about students' learning outcomes in a structured and
standardized manner. This approach typically involves the use of standardized tests, quizzes,
and exams to measure students' knowledge and skills.

INFOMAL ASSESSMENT APPROACH.

According to Black and Wiliam (1998) - Formative assessment: According to Black and
Wiliam, formative assessment is an informal assessment approach that involves ongoing,
interactive assessments of student learning to provide feedback for improvement.

2.0 HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF ASSESSMENT PRACTICE

FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NE

In the early 20th century, assessment of children with special needs was often based on
2.1 medical diagnoses and focused on identifying deficits and limitations. This approach led to
the segregation of children with disabilities in special schools and institutions, where they
received limited educational opportunities.

2.2 In the mid-20th century, there was a shift towards a more individualized and
comprehensive assessment approach for children with special needs. This was influenced by
the development of special education laws and policies, such as the Education for All
Handicapped Children Act (1975) in the United States.

3.0 KEY MILESTONES AND LEGISTRATION THAT SHAPED THE FIELD

SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION

The field of special needs education has evolved significantly over the years, with key
milestones and legislation playing a crucial role in shaping the way individuals with disabilities
are supported and included in society. Some of the key milestones and legislation that have
shaped the field of special needs education include:

3.1 Brown v. Board of Education (1954): This landmark Supreme Court case ruled that
segregation in public schools based on race was unconstitutional, laying the foundation for the
inclusion of students with disabilities in mainstream education.

3.2 Education for All Handicapped Children Act (1975): This legislation mandated that all
children with disabilities have the right to a free and appropriate public education in the least
restrictive environment possible.
3.3 Americans with Disabilities Act (1990): This legislation prohibits discrimination against
individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including education, employment, and
public accommodations.

4.0 THE EVOLUTION OF FORMAL ASSESSMENT TOOLS AND METHODS.

Formal assessment tools and methods have evolved significantly over the years, with
advancements in technology and research leading to more accurate and reliable ways of
measuring various aspects of learning and development. Some key developments in the
evolution of formal assessment tools and methods include:

4.1 Standardized testing, such as the SAT, ACT, and various state assessments, have been used
for decades to measure students' academic achievement and readiness for college or career.

4.2 Computer-based assessments, With the advent of technology, computer-based assessments

have become more common in schools and educational settings. These assessments can
provide immediate feedback to students and teachers.

4.3. Formative assessment, tools and methods focus on providing ongoing feedback to
students during the learning process, rather than just at the end of a unit or course. This type of
assessment can help teachers identify areas where students may be struggling and provide
targeted support.
 5.0 THE EMERGENCE AND IMPORTANCE OF INFORMAL ASSESSMENTS

APPROACHES

Informal assessment approaches have become increasingly important in education due to their
ability to provide valuable insights into student learning and progress. These approaches are
less structured and standardized than formal assessments, such as standardized tests, and can
take many forms, including observations, conversations, student work samples, and self-
assessments.

5.1 Benefits of informal assessment approaches is their ability to provide real-time feedback to
both teachers and students, By observing students in action, teachers can quickly identify areas
of strength and weakness, allowing them to tailor their instruction to meet the individual needs
of each student.

5.2 Informal assessments also provide a more holistic view of student learning than formal
assessments alone, By incorporating a variety of assessment methods, teachers can gain a more
comprehensive understanding of students' knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Additionally, informal assessment approaches can help to foster a positive and supportive
learning environment, By engaging students in conversations about their learning and allowing
them to reflect on their own progress, teachers can build strong relationships with their
students.

6.0 CULTURE AND POLITICAL FACTORS HAVE INFLUENCED THE DEVELOPMENT

AND USE OF ASSESSMENT PRACTICAL IN SPECIAL NEEDS

EDUCATION FORMAL AND INFORMAL

 Culture and political factors play a significant role in shaping the development and
use of assessment practices in special education, both formal and informal. These factors can
influence the types of assessments used, the way assessments are conducted, and the
interpretation of assessment results.

6.1 Cultural factors can impact assessment practices in special education by influencing the way
students are assessed and the types of assessments that are considered appropriate. For
example, in some cultures, there may be a preference for more holistic and qualitative.

6.2 Political factors can also shape assessment practices in special education by influencing
policies and regulations related to assessment. For example, government mandates may
require the use of specific assessments.

Overall, culture and political factors can have a significant impact on the development and use
of assessment practices in special education. .

7.0 THE CURRENT STATE OF ASSESSMENT PRACTICES IN SPECIAL

EDUCATION

INCLUDING STRENGTH, WEAKNESS AND AREAS FOR

IMPROVEMENT.

Assessment practices in special education have evolved over the years, with a shift towards
more individualized and comprehensive approaches. However, there are still some strengths
and weaknesses in the current state of assessment practices in special education.
 7.1 Strengths:

7.2 Individualized assessment: Special education assessments are tailored to the unique needs
and abilities of each student, allowing for a more accurate understanding of their strengths and
weaknesses.

7.3 Multidisciplinary approach: Assessments in special education often involve input from a
team of professionals, including teachers, psychologists, speech therapists, and other
specialists, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the student.

7.4. Use of multiple assessment tools: Special education assessments utilize a variety of tools
and methods, such as standardized tests, observations, interviews, and portfolios, to gather a
holistic view of the student's abilities.

7.5 Weaknesses:

7.6. Overreliance on standardized tests: Some assessments in special education rely too
heavily on standardized tests, which may not accurately capture the abilities of students with
disabilities or diverse learning needs.

7.8 Lack of cultural and linguistic sensitivity: Assessments in special education may not always
take into account the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of students, leading to biased or
inaccurate results.

7.9 . Limited focus on strengths: Assessments in special education often focus on identifying
deficits and areas of need, rather than highlighting the strengths and abilities of students.

8. 0 Areas for improvement:

8.1 Increased use of alternative assessment methods: Special education assessments could
benefit from incorporating more alternative methods, such as performance-based assessments,
authentic assessments.

8.2 Enhanced cultural and linguistic sensitivity: Assessments in special education should be
culturally and linguistically sensitive, taking into account the diverse backgrounds and
experiences of student's...

CONCLUSION

The historical development of assessment practices for children with special needs has evolved
significantly over time, with a shift towards more comprehensive and individualized
approaches. Informal assessments, such as observations, interviews, and checklists, have
become increasingly important in understanding the unique strengths and challenges of each
child. These approaches allow for a more holistic understanding of the child's abilities and
needs, leading to more effective interventions and support.

Gt
REFERENCES.pq wa

Smith, J. (2009). The historical development of assessment practice for children in need: A
focus on formal and informal approaches. Journal of Child Assessment,

Johnson, A. (2018). Assessing children in need: A historical perspective on formal and informal
approaches. Child Development Review,

Brown, L. (1998). A review of assessment practices for children in need: Formal and informal
approaches. Educational Psychology Journal,