The Pros And Cons Of Standardized Testing

A standardized test is defined as any examination that’s administered in a predetermined standard manner. (Popham) Standardized tests have defined students for years, determining what colleges and scholarships they’re eligible for. Although standardized tests make it easy to compare school performance, they are just one of many measures that should be used to evaluate student’s ability and readiness for college. Standardized tests originated in Imperial China to determine one’s eligibility for government positions in the ruling class. While the first standardized test appeared in America during World War I. These tests were used to place U.S. Army recruits into military roles that best suited their skills. The next standardized test to be
In a study by the Center on Education Policy, it was shown that 70% of school districts reduced time in at least one subject to make more time for the tested subjects like reading and math. (Spann) Standardized tests have also negatively impacted teachers. The intense focus on test-prep devalues the teacher’s deep knowledge and ability to make connections with students in their classrooms. Another negative impact on teachers is the performance evaluations of teachers based on test results. (Spann) Teachers are expected to take up work related to testing in addition to their regular teaching duties. One study found that teachers lose between 60 and 100 hours of instructional time in a year due to testing and the institutional tasks that surround it. Standardized testing is not an accurate reflection on a student's ability. They often measure a student’s access to resources rather than one's skill in a particular area. Standardized testing may provide students with tests that are not developmentally appropriate or that cover material not taught at their level.