Georgia Educator Certification Test Now Available Via Computer-Based Testing

(PRWEB) May 4, 2010 -- The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) announced today that the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators® (GACE®) Basic Skills assessment is now available via computer-based testing (CBT). Developed in collaboration with the education, technology and services company, Pearson, the GACE Basic Skills assessment is a test of candidate proficiency in reading, writing and mathematics. A passing score on the GACE Basic Skills assessment is used by institutions of higher education in Georgia as an admission requirement for entry into teacher preparation programs, as well as by the PSC as a requirement for prospective educators in Georgia to obtain their certification.

Delivered using innovative and secure test delivery technology, the GACE CBT allows candidates to schedule their tests at a time that is convenient for them at Pearson's secure testing centers in Georgia and throughout the nation. Expanding access to Georgia's educator certification test to candidates around the country will potentially grow the pool of certified teachers and leaders for Georgia's schools.

"At the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, we collaborate with the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson on an ongoing basis to evaluate and expand our educator certification testing program to help ensure that our state has the best prepared and best qualified teachers and leaders for its classrooms," said Kelly Henson, executive secretary. "Offering the GACE Basic Skills assessment via computer-based testing enhances the testing experience for candidates for educator certification in Georgia."

Computer-based test delivery increases testing and registration opportunities. Candidates can schedule, reschedule or cancel their computer-based test up to 24 hours in advance of their appointment, providing them with the flexibility to take the test when they feel most prepared. In addition, computer-based testing allows candidates to receive immediate feedback for the reading and mathematics portions of the Basic Skills assessment. Prompt feedback and more convenient scheduling options provide candidates with greater flexibility in meeting their necessary requirements for entrance into teacher preparation programs and for earning their teaching certificate.

The Evaluation Systems group of Pearson, the most experienced provider of standards-based teacher certification testing programs, developed and manages the administration of Georgia's overall educator certification testing program for assessing the knowledge and skills of public school educators.

"It is exciting to work with Mr. Henson and the Georgia PSC to use the power of technology to expand the reach of its educator certification testing program," said William Gorth, Ph.D., president of the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson. "Computer-based testing offers benefits for candidates taking the tests, educator preparation programs and school districts hiring educators."

For more information or to register for the GACE CBT Basic Skills assessment, go to http://www.gace.nesinc.com/. For more information about the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson, visit http://teacher.PearsonAssessments.com.

About Pearson

Pearson (NYSE:PSO), the global leader in education and education technology, provides innovative print and digital education materials for preK through college, student information systems and learning management systems, teacher licensure testing, teacher professional development, career certification programs, and testing and assessment products that set the standard for the industry. Pearson's other primary businesses include the Financial Times Group and the Penguin Group. For more information about the Assessment group of Pearson, visit http://www.pearsonassessments.com/.

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