Setting Up for Testing

Before you can test, you’ll need to set up your headsets and testing devices. This page will explain how to do that. What would you like to do?

Device requirements for MAP Reading Fluency

For most devices, you conduct testing with an approved browser (website is student.mapnwea.org). However, testing on an iPad requires an app.

Device Operating System Chrome Microsoft Edge
PC

Windows®10

Yes

Yes
Macintosh® macOS® 10.14 minimum

Yes

No
Chromebook™ Google Chrome™ OS 106 minimum

Yes

No
iPad®
(not iPad mini)

iPadOS® 14 minimum

No—use MAP Reading Fluency Secure Testing App

Browser versions supported

  • Chrome 106 minimum
  • Microsoft Edge 106 minimum

iPad secure testing app

To prepare iPad devices for testing, install the MAP Reading Fluency Testing App, which automatically opens to the student testing site in full-screen mode.

  • Access: In the App Store®, search for “MAP Reading Fluency.”
  • Distribution: If desired, you can use a mobile device management tool, such as the Apple® Profile Manager. If needed, use the Bundle ID: org.nwea.map-reading-fluency.

Important: Before testing, ensure you have the latest app because changes occur regularly and you must use the latest version. For news on updates, see the Product Updates page at nwea.force.com/nweaconnection/.

Setting up headsets

All MAP Reading Fluency tests require each student to use a headset with a boom microphone. Built-in computer microphones and headsets with an inline microphone on the headset cord are not supported.

While NWEA does not recommend specific headset brands, we have the following recommendations for choosing headsets:

  • Over the ear, rather than earbuds
  • Passive noise-canceling
  • Boom microphone
  • USB connection preferred for computer desktops and laptops; 3.5 mm jacks can be used for Chromebook and iPad devices

Before testing, connect the headsets to each device that you plan to use for testing and make sure that your headsets are set as the default device for both audio output and input. You’ll also perform a hardware check within MAP Reading Fluency. See below and watch the video for instructions. You should also review the system requirements to ensure that your devices meet the minimum standards.

Setup overview:

Setting headsets as default device

Make sure that the headset is the default device for both recording and playback.

  • Windows: Open the Sound control panel by right-clicking the Windows icon and choosing Control Panel, then Hardware and Sound, then Sound. Check the Playback and Recording tabs and make sure that the headset is chosen as the default device. The default device will have a green check mark next to it.

  • Mac: The Sound control panel is under System Preferences. Check the Output and Input tabs and make sure that the headset is chosen as the default device. Make sure the “mute” checkbox next to the Volume slider is not selected.

Chromebook and iPad devices should recognize and use your headsets automatically. You can still check if they are the default device.

  • Chromebook: Click on the system tray, then click on the headset icon next to the Volume slider. Make sure that the headset is chosen under both Output and Input.
  • iPad: Swipe up from the bottom edge of any screen on the iPad to open the Control Center. Tap and hold the Audio card (square in the upper-right corner), then tap the icon to see your devices. Choose your headset in the list of devices that you can connect.

Performing a hardware check

Note: MAP Reading Fluency requires the Chrome browser for viewing reports and either the Chrome browser or iPad application for student testing.

On each machine used for testing, you should check the equipment before you test.

Log in to either the student site or teacher site and click Check Equipment:

Click the Hardware Check link that appears when the app is launched, before the student login.

From student site
(student.mapnwea.org)

  

From teacher site
(start.mapnwea.org)

Check My Equipment button below Practice and Take Assessment buttons

 

– or

From the Check Equipment area, check the headset output, record test audio, and play the recorded audio back. Use a normal speaking voice. If the volume is too low or too high, you’ll see a message indicating the problem. Adjust your volume through your system settings.

Allow the browser to use the microphone if you are asked. Depending on your school security and browser settings, you may need to repeat this step.

Message asks if Reading Fluency can use your microphone

See also Resolving Headset Issues.

Practice tests

At any time, students can get familiar with MAP Reading Fluency by taking the unscored practice tests. There are two practice test options, which can be taken in either English or Spanish:

  • Foundational Skills
  • Oral Reading

For either practice test, allow 5 to 10 minutes for students to complete the different types of questions.

How to access the practice tests

  1. Open the regular testing site: https://student.mapnwea.org.

  2. Type the username and password.

    For more information, see Assigning Passwords.

  3. Choose Practice:

    Student choices to begin practice or to take assessment.

  4. Choose either English or Español, depending on your needs:

    Students taking the Practice Test can choose from two options: English or Espanol.

  5. Choose either practice test option, Foundational Skills or Oral Reading:

    Students taking the Practice Test in English can choose from two options: Foundational Skills or Oral Reading.

  6. For students taking the Practice Test in Spanish, choose from either Destrezas fundamentales or Lectura oral.

    Students taking the Practice Test in Spanish will be given their options in Spanish.

Checklists

These checklists may help you set up testing:

Testing Preparation for Teachers

Tech Specs and Setup

Test Day Steps and Troubleshooting