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The Pros And Cons Of Standardized Testing

1350 Words6 Pages

On a global scale, American students have significantly fallen behind in educational rankings as measured by the two major international large-scale assessments, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), in math, reading and science from 2000-2015 (OECD, 2016). The TIMSS is the largest and most extensive cross-cultural student achievement assessment ever conducted and reflects curriculum-based skills and knowledge taught in schools. The PISA gauges real-world problem solving, cross-curricular competencies, and literacy in reading, mathematics and science. In both of these international assessments, the U.S. continues to rank below average and behind many …show more content…

Many argue such tests take a one-size-fits-all approach that lacks the ability to deliver accurate results and that no matter how well designed the tests are, that they will never be a solution for all issues. Standardized exams lack the ability to adequately measure such a large and diverse population presented within the United States student body. These imprecise instruments are based on false assumptions that compound biases and inequalities. Opponents argue testing doesn’t really level the playing field for all students as was originally intended by NCLB. Standardized testing has been shown to penalize students from disadvantaged backgrounds because while being given the same exams, students from more affluent backgrounds have the means to hire personal tutors and take expensive test prep courses to specifically prepare for tests (Neill & Medina, …show more content…

After falling to the bottom of the position of global education rankings, the nation decided to overhaul its system completely. The turning point came in the 1970’s when all teachers were required to have master’s degrees. Even though all degrees are state-funded, acceptance into teaching programs in Finland is now more competitive to get into than medical programs. Only the top 10% of each graduating class are chosen to practice in education. As a result, the profession of teaching in Finland is given the same regard as the professions of doctors and lawyers. Finnish Educators say the country’s success lies in the basic primary education provided from age 7 through 16, after which most students go to vocational or academic schools. During this time the educational aim is to serve as an equalizing instrument for society (Sahlberg 2016). Finland’s roots lie in the Lutheran church, pillars of which are the religious belief in equality and opportunity. These beliefs are taught in schools and set the stage for the educational curriculum, which serves as broad guidelines for

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