Information from provincial assessments can help identify areas of strength, areas needing improvement, and the progress being made toward the achievement of improvement goals. This information can provide insight into how to improve students' learning. Results from provincial assessments provide only part of the overall picture of the province's, a school authority's, a school's or an individual student's performance. In addition, many factors affect student achievement. The analysis, interpretation, use and communication of results from provincial assessments need to take these into account.
Provincial assessments provide a common measure of achievement for students throughout the province.
The tests support the classroom teacher in carrying out the responsibility for evaluating students' progress and communicating to students and parents the full range and richness of students' achievement. In order to improve student learning, Alberta Learning, school authorities, and schools shall analyze, interpret, use, and communicate the results of provincial assessments. A board shall establish and maintain pursuant to the regulations a student record for each student enrolled in its schools. A board shall provide the Minister with any information the Minister requests in writing. A board shall develop a reporting and accountability system on any matter the Minister prescribes.