WGU D184 Exam 2025 | Standards-Based Assessment EXAM | Standards-based Grading | Proficiency Scales | Questions and Correct Answers | Western Governors University

The WGU D184 Exam 2025 document provides an in-depth exploration of standards-based assessment and grading systems, specifically designed for students and educators at Western Governors University. It contrasts these modern educational approaches with traditional grading systems, emphasizing consistency in proficiency scales and the role of descriptive feedback in supporting student development.

Within a standards-based grading system, the proficiency scale remains constant across various assessments, unlike traditional systems where possible points can vary. This approach ensures that students are measured against a consistent benchmark. Additionally, the document highlights the differences between standards-based and standards-referenced grading systems, noting that the former requires students to meet a defined proficiency level, while the latter focuses on demonstrating learning outcomes.

The document also outlines the benefits of standards-based grading in providing structured feedback, which is crucial for helping students track their progress towards learning targets. It explains how such grading systems support struggling students by allowing them multiple opportunities to redo lessons and assignments until they achieve mastery.

Key elements of standards-based grading are detailed, such as the use of a four-point proficiency scale, which includes levels from advanced to little or no mastery. The document offers guidance on designing assessment blueprints, suggesting a decreasing number of items as complexity increases and providing examples like short essays and drag-and-drop activities for various subjects.

Furthermore, the document discusses sophisticated assessment techniques such as the method of mounting evidence and the use of mathematical models to estimate student proficiency. These methods provide a structured process for continuous observation and evaluation, aiding in the estimation of summative scores.