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Response process validity evidence provides a window into a respondent’s cognitive processing. The purpose of this study is to describe a new data collection tool called a whole-class think aloud (WCTA). This work is performed as part of test development for a series of problem-solving measures to be used in elementary and middle grades. Data from third-grade students were collected in a 1-1 think aloud setting and compared to data from similar students as part of WCTAs. Findings indicated that students performed similarly on the items when the two think-aloud settings were compared. Respondents also needed less encouragement to share ideas aloud during the WCTA compared to the 1-1 think aloud. They also communicated feeling more comfortable in the WCTA setting compared to the 1-1 think aloud. Drawing the findings together, WCTAs functioned as well if not better, than 1-1 think alouds for the purpose of contextualizing third grade students’ cognitive processes. Future studies using WCTAs are recommended to explore their limitations and other factors that might impact their success as data gathering tools. 

The purpose of this study was to investigate fourth-grade students’ sensemaking of a word problem. Sensemaking occurs when students connect their understanding of a situation with existing knowledge. We investigated students’ sensemaking about a word problem by comparing students’ strategy use. Inductive analysis was used to find themes about student sensemaking. Students exhibited one of three levels of sensemaking. Some problem-solving strategies, as a result of students’ sensemaking, led to a greater frequency of correct results. 

Bostic and colleagues (2015, 2017) explored the validity evidence for a problem- solving measure (PSM) series when administered in a paper - and - pencil format. Any modifications to a measure or the way it is presented that might impact the score interpretatio ns should be examined carefully. The purpose of this manuscript is to explore further development of the PSMs, specifically investigating an online version and fleshing out the validity argument needed to justify their use in online environments.