Elementary Science Assessments: New Landscape Analysis
The Elementary Science Collection is a free online repository of measures of student science learning in grades PreK–5. Developed through a comprehensive landscape analysis by CAESART and EDC, the collection documents existing science assessments and highlights key features such as grade levels, psychometric evidence, and accessibility considerations.
On July 29, 2026, we brought together the researchers who led the landscape analysis for a conversation facilitated by Bill Penuel. In this webinar, they discuss the findings from the analysis, the current landscape of elementary science assessment, and how researchers can use the Elementary Science Collection to identify measures that fit their needs.
It currently lists 63 instruments across seven domains:
- 🔬 Science Inquiry — exploratory behavior, scientific reasoning, prediction and observation
- 🌿 Life Science — conceptual understanding of living systems and real-world phenomena
- ⚡ Physical Science — causal reasoning, hands-on task performance
- 🌍 Earth and Space Science
- ⚙️ Engineering and Technology — design thinking, applied problem-solving
- 💻 Computational Thinking — sequencing, conditionals, coding concepts
- 🧪 Science (General) — cross-domain science knowledge and skills
In this webinar, you’ll learn how assessment of science learning has evolved, where the gaps are, and how to navigate the collection to find the right tools.
You’ll hear from:
- William R. Penuel, Ph.D., University of Colorado Boulder (facilitator)
- Megan Silander, Ph.D., EDC
- Sania Zaidi, Ph.D., EDC