In order to ensure that CASLS’ assessments accurately and reliably measure student performance, each assessment undergoes a rigorous testing phase known as a pilot. Tests in this phase are referred to as Computerized Assessments of Proficiency (CAP). After the pilot concludes, schools and districts can purchase the assessment, known as STAMP, through CASLS’ partner company Avant Assessment.

Pilot tests allow teachers to experience the latest assessment techniques, allow students to understand the skills they need to become proficient, and allow CASLS researchers to fine-tune the test. Teachers can register their classes to participate in a pilot free of charge by visiting the NOELLA pilot site (for grades three through six) or the CAP pilot site (for middle school, high school, and college students).

The following grants and partnering institutions sponsor STAMP development: Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE), Institute of International Education, The Language Flagship, New York University, University of Chicago, University of Hawaii, University of Maryland, University of Wisconsin, and U.S. Department of Education Title VI.