Standardized Testing by Aimee Eilar

Pros & Cons

aeeilar — 2024-03-05 18:53:10 UTC

This article gives a brief history of standardized testing and includes nonpartisan pros and cons of having this implemented in schools. Some arguments include whether standardized testing actually gives a good estimate of academic performance or if it just determines which students are good at test taking, whether it helps or hurts marginalized groups, if test results are good predictors of college and job success or not, and if these tests provide good metrics on a teachers performance.

The Future of Standardized Testing

aeeilar — 2024-03-05 18:58:01 UTC

This article provides an analysis of standardized testing in schools and some of the laws and regulations relating to these standards. There is information regarding some of the most common criticisms of standardized testing and finally, it provides ideas to make these assessments more effective and equitable.

Equity and Standardization

aeeilar — 2024-03-05 19:03:10 UTC

This article goes over the history of education and standardization in America, discusses what all is being standardized in education, talks about who sets these standards, weighs the benefits and challenges, and questions if equity and standardization are compatible. This article focuses on multiple forms of standardization in the education system incuding:

Standardized level, pace, and path of learning
Standardized curriculum
Standardized assessments
Standardized expectations
Standardized level of digital access

Brief History of Standardized Testing

aeeilar — 2024-03-05 19:06:48 UTC

This article goes back to the beginning of standardized testing, discusses how it started, and how we got where we are today in terms of its prevalence in our education system. It started in 1845 as a way to replace oral examinations. The thought at the time was that it would actually provide children with more equal opportunities. Unfortunately, over the years the tests became more of a measure of academic ability than of academic achievement. The education systems curriculum then because more focused on these tests and more rigid in terms of what and how to teach.

Alternatives to Standardized Testing

aeeilar — 2024-03-05 19:11:34 UTC

This article focuses mainly on the negative outcomes of the current state of standardized testing and proposes alternative options. Alternative suggestions include portfolio-based assessments, performing exams, proficiency exit standards, exhibitions, etc. Some of these alternatives are already being used in the US and other countries.

More Alternatives

aeeilar — 2024-03-05 19:17:15 UTC

This education blog also goes over the history of standardized testing as well as some pros and cons. It then lists and describes seven alternatives to standardized testing.