Standardized Testing

With APs going on and the June SAT just around the corner, I believe now is an optimal time to discuss why it's about time we get rid of our system of standardized testing. Just as some backstory, this form of testing came into the United States in the 1800s, and since then, there have been countless of credible studies that show that the system does not accurately test a student's intelligence or range of knowledge. After over 100 years of the same methods, it is time to update the classroom. This system is formulated so that there is a set mark to meet-- it was created under the notion that all children think the same and have equal advantages in the learning process, when in reality, no child's mind is like any other's. As such, students should not be treated like packaged products in an assembly line, taught to memorize terms and dates, instead of being encouraged to let their curiosity flourish and their creativity thrive. So instead of continuing this outdated practice, we must start looking in other and more progressive directions for a new way of learning--sorry, new ways of learning. Because there is not just one, singular path for all students to take, and so we should not subject all students to that one path (down with common core!).

2 comments

Daniella Ineza

May 14, 2017

Standardized tests is an interesting topic to me because as an international student who look for completing higher level of education in the US, my classmates and I had several debates about the use and effectiveness of those tests.

We think that it was more designed for American students and does not give equal chances to all students all over the world as they think. And just as you said, it is based on the myth that "all children think the same and have equal advantages in the learning process".

We start preparing for SAT/ACT a little time before the actual test while the education system of US let's say prepare their students from the time they start school( I might be exaggerating here, and please correct me so that I can also correct my classmates).

I however agree on the fact that it is a standardized way for universities to evaluate applicants from all parts of the world with different education systems, a standardized way also of verifying whether they will be able to cope with the rigorous university work expectations.

Is it the most effective to display one's ability? I can't tell.

Maddie Danzberger

Jul 7, 2017

I completely agree with you! Basing a students future educational opportunities on the results of a three-hour test does not accurately reflect their abilities as a student. This is my opinion of testing in general - it is much more effective to have a student write an essay or discuss a subject. That way they can also learn to apply what they have learned to real world situations instead of cramming numbers and facts in to their mind. A lot of students don't retain what they are tested on anyway because studying seemingly random facts/information provides no context, and therefore isn't deemed "necessary" to remember.