As of June 2024, updates to performance accountability rules have introduced new ways to measure, document, and report educational milestones in adult education programs. These changes focus on capturing a broader range of learner achievements and enhancing the ability to track progress effectively.
Key Updates
- Educational Function Level (EFL) Gains:
- New MSG 1d: States can now report an educational functioning level gain when a participant passes a subtest on a State-recognized high school equivalency examination (HSD/E). This means any milestone achieved towards a high school diploma/equivalency now counts as an EFL gain, which is equivalent in value to traditional posttests like the TABE or CASAS.
- Example: If a learner passes the Reasoning through the Language Arts section of the GED, it counts as MSG 1d. Similarly, passing a subtest in a Spanish GED course also qualifies.
- Transition to Postsecondary Education:
- Updated MSG 1c: The updated rule removes the requirement for participants to exit the adult education program to count as an EFL gain. Students who are enrolled in basic education and also enter State-recognized postsecondary education or training during the program year can now be credited with MSG 1c.
- Example: If a learner in an adult education program enrolls in a postsecondary course or an Integrated Education and Training (IET) program, this counts as an MSG 1c, even if they remain in the adult education program.
- Measurable Skill Gains (MSGs):
- MSG 1 – Educational Function Level (EFL): Gains in educational functioning levels measured by paired standardized tests, secondary school credits, transition to postsecondary education, or HSD/E subtests.
- MSG 2 – High School Diploma or Equivalent (HSD/E): Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent.
- MSG 3 – Postsecondary Credit Hours: Accumulation of postsecondary credit hours.
- MSG 4 – Training Milestones: Achievement of specific training milestones.
- MSG 5 – Third Party Exam: Success on third-party examinations.
Implications
- For Programs: These updates allow for more comprehensive documentation of learner progress and achievements. Adult education programs can now better capture milestones such as passing subtests and dual enrollment achievements.
- For Learners: The new rules provide additional recognition for their efforts and achievements, making their educational progress more visible and valued.
These updates modernize adult education performance metrics, align with innovative practices, and enhance the ability to track and report critical learning outcomes for adult learners.
