Frequently Asked Questions PDF Version
1. What is TestWiz for ERB?
TestWiz is an easy-to-use product designed by dataMetrics Software to track and report on student test scores. TestWiz for ERB is a custom version of the software, modified to support ERB’s CTP 4 and Writing Assessment Program.
TestWiz Classic for ERB had been the flagship tool for analyzing the ERB assessments for 5 years. It has now been replaced by TestWiz.Net - the web-based version. Licenses for TestWiz Classic can still be renewed by existing clients, but no new licenses are offered.
TestWiz.Net is a web-based application that makes reporting available through the Internet. TestWiz.Net allows you to generate reports from any computer with Internet access. Highlights:
- Test data is uploaded to a secure Web server.
- Secure access to the data is available to multiple people.
- You can limit access to student-level reports by permission.
- Querying the data is easy.
- No need for local IT support.
2. I already get reports from ERB. Why do I need a tool?
Providing access to test results through the Internet makes it possible for many people in your school system to generate reports at will. TestWiz.Net includes a student database, which allows you to generate longitudinal reports. In addition, the report elements are customizable so that focus on individual students, sub-groups of students, entire school buildings, and districts. Once the data is brought into TestWiz, you can:
- View norms on subtests such as Reading Comprehension and Math.
- View results at the Objectives and item level.
- Zero-in on students who did poorly, or well, or students that fit a particular profile.
- Define your own demographics, with up to 99 user-definable columns.
- View multi-year data for individual students and groups of students.
- Assign students to current teachers and/or teachers of newly organized classes before printing class reports.
- TestWiz can handle all the assessments you administer. You can import electronic files, scan in locally developed tests, or key-enter test data.
Click here for Sample Reports.
3. Would I need to invest in any hardware or system software?
No. The server and its software are licensed and maintained by dataMetrics. Anyone with Internet access will be able to view results online. Both Macintoshes and PC’s are supported. You do need to license TestWiz.Net annually.
4. What about the security of the data?
All data going to and from the server on the Internet are encrypted. The server itself is in a locked down facility. You are the one who gives access to others in your school system via user names and passwords. You control permission to view student level information down to the teacher level.
5. How does the data get uploaded to TestWiz.Net?
dataMetrics personnel upload your CTP 4 and Writing Assessment Program data files for you.
6. Do I need to use student ID numbers in order to view results longitudinally?
It is highly recommended that you do use student ID numbers. That serves to facilitate matching student results from one year to the next. However, if you don’t use ID’s, TestWiz.Net does have a utility for matching student records online after they have been brought into the database.
7. Can I use my local demographics such as ethnicity and sending school?
You can add your own demographic fields into the database and then associate students with those demographics.
8. How easy is it to learn?
Anyone with minimal computer experience can start generating meaningful reports very quickly. A toll free helpline is available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (EST) weekdays and e-mail questions are answered within 24 hours.
9. What about training?
ERB holds an annual conference in October, where an afternoon session on TestWiz is offered. dataMetrics offers online training or at our office located one hour west of Boston. ERB consultants can provide on-site training.
10. How about other non-ERB tests?
TestWiz gives you the opportunity to view and analyze results of multiple assessments. Imagine learning one tool that is used for virtually any of your tests.
- We can take data in any electronic form, convert and upload it. This works well for such tests as the OLSAT, COLGAT, SAT 10, IOWA, etc.
- You can key enter scores directly online for assessments such as the DIBELS and DRA. Click here for DIBELS sample reports.
- For locally developed assessments, you can use TestWiz for scanning tests.
Please call dataMetrics for details.
11. How do we order? What does it cost?
You can use ERB’s Order Form to order TestWiz.Net and send it to dataMetrics Software. Order the disks on your OSS form (Item Number 17/P). There is an annual license that covers the CTP 4 and WrAP tests. It is $1/student, with a minimum of $500. There are additional fees for converting non-ERB tests and extended training sessions. Refer to the TestWiz.Net for ERB Add-Ons information sheet for pricing guidelines.
12. Can I preview TestWiz.Net before ordering?
Yes. We can show it to you online via WebEx® (a demonstration and training tool). Just give us a call at 877-456-8949 or sign-up for a free demo. For a brief overview and screen shots, you may also take a look at our Quick Tour.
13. How do I get more information?
Contact dataMetrics Software any time:
| E-Mail Address: |
software@testwiz.com |
| Support Line: |
877.456.8949 (toll-free) |
| Alternate Line: |
978.456.3464 |
| Fax: |
978.456.3391 |
| Mailing Address: |
dataMetrics Software, Inc
6 Lancaster County Rd.
Harvard, MA 01451 |