Although the ideas inherent in components of the BEAR Assessment System are not unique, the combination of these particular ideas and techniques into a usable system does represent a new step in assessment development. The implications for this effort for other large-scale tests, for curricula, and for assessment reform on a broader level, need to be explored and tested through other related
efforts. We hope our efforts and experiences will encourage increased discussion and experimentation of the use of state of the art assessment procedures across a broad range of contexts from classroom practice to large-scale assessments.