The Impact of Standardized Testing on The American Education System

Abstract

Standardized testing has been a long-standing practice in the American education system, dating back to the Industrial Revolution. However, recent studies have raised concerns about the effectiveness and impact of these tests on students and educators. This paper aims to explore the history of standardized testing, as well as the positive and negative effects it has on the American education system.

Introduction

Over the past decade, standardized testing has become a common practice in schools across the United States. Students are required to take numerous tests throughout their academic careers, with an average of 112 mandatory tests to pass before completing school. While the initial purpose of these tests was to provide a standardized measure for evaluating student performance, there is a growing concern that they have become more of a hindrance than a helpful tool. High test scores are often prioritized over actual knowledge, leading schools to focus more on test preparation than on genuine education.

The History of Standardized Testing

Standardized testing emerged in response to the demands of the Industrial Revolution, which required a large workforce of moderately skilled laborers. The introduction of standardized tests provided a quick and efficient way to evaluate large numbers of students. Tests like the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and the American College Testing (ACT) were developed to assess students' skills and readiness for higher education. While these tests have evolved over time, they continue to play a significant role in the education system.

The Effect of Standardized Testing

The Benefits of the System

Proponents of standardized testing argue that it provides an objective and reliable measure of student achievement. These tests enable the government to assess the quality of education provided by schools and teachers, allowing for easy monitoring of student progress. Standardized tests are also seen as a fair and consistent way to evaluate students from diverse backgrounds.

The Criticisms of the System

However, critics of standardized testing argue that these tests may not accurately reflect student performance and could have negative consequences for education. Since the implementation of No Child Left Behind in 2002, the United States has seen a decline in global math rankings. The focus on test preparation has led to a narrowing of the curriculum, with many schools cutting back on subjects other than reading and math. This has resulted in students prioritizing test scores over genuine learning, leading to an increase in cheating and a lack of true comprehension.

Conclusion

While standardized testing has been a valuable tool in the past, the changing demands of the modern world call for a reevaluation of its role in education. It is essential to strike a balance between standardized testing and other assessment methods, such as essays and projects. By incorporating a variety of evaluation techniques, schools can better prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.

References

Carter, P. L., Welner, K. G., & Ladson-Billings, G. (2013). Closing the opportunity gap: What America must do to give every child an even chance. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Kelleghan, T., Madaus, G. F., & Airasian, P.W. (2012). The Effects of Standardized Testing. New York: Springer Science & Business.

Lemann, N. (2000). The Big Test: The Secret History of the American Meritocracy. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.