Exposure to standardized testing in students starts at a very young grade. According to the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, a standardized test is any examination that’s administered and scored in a predetermined, standard manner. The two types of tests are aptitude and achievement. An aptitude test predicts the likeness of how well a student will perform in a future educational setting. An achievement test tests that measures skills and knowledge learned in a given grade level. Many believe that these standardized tests are a fair, accurate way to assess students knowledge. Yet many also say they are an inadequate, unreliable form to evaluate students of any age.
In my personal opinion, I believe that standardized tests are unfair and an inaccurate way to assess students. The main reason I believe this, is because not all students are good at taking test – for various different reasons. When students are incapable of taking tests, it causes them to not think properly and not succeed. However, you typically see that these same students have very good grades in their classes and on homework and classwork. Students know the material, they just can’t prove it while taking tests which is unjust.
According to PBS, from the grades of pre-K to 12th grade, students take on average 113 standardized tests per year. That’s an excessive amount, especially when it’s not even really producing reliable information. Perhaps by simply cutting back a little bit and don’t put so much stress on it on these tests, children may feel more confident in themselves and do better.
As mentioned before, I do not believe that standardized tests are a reliable source to assess students. These tests are causing severe (and unnecessary) stress to young children. WHITBY School elaborates about how there are many factors that can contribute to the downfall of a child taking these tests. Some consisting cultural background, unfamiliarity with testing methods, test anxiety, and illnesses which could could all negatively affect one’s performance. In a study published in 2001, Brookings Institution found that 50-80% of year-over-year test score improvements were temporary.
However, standardized tests do have it’s pros. Taking tests like these allow schools to check their curriculum as well as use it as a way to evaluate a teacher’s teaching. They allow schools to pinpoint specific areas for improvement. These tests allow schools in their entirety to better themselves.
Personally, I’m against the idea of judging a student’s intellectual ability based off of a standardized test because of its many flaws. On the other hand, these tests aren’t entirely bad and does have it’s perks. The outcome of these tests will continue to be insufficient unless adjustments are made to meet all students needs.
