Tests, either standardized or state, create a standard for schools. By measuring students against a universal standard, it becomes easier to evaluate and rank them. State tests show a student’s improvement. With standardized tests, students address the same prompt and questions. Thus, they create a baseline to measure performance. Comparisons over districts help aid educators develop a quality curriculum.
Over time, educators compare the growth of a student’s learning. Educators can also compare student scores with each other. This shows various changes in progress. Plus, it shows accountability. Through state tests, educators see where students are succeeding and where they need improvement. Thus, they can revise their teaching methods and content presentation.
Through standardized tests, the Department of Education and help implement solutions to fix curriculum and educational problems. Thus, students will meet success in their academic future.
Standardized Tests Disadvantages
State tests have several disadvantages. Educators do not get results until the end of the year. Thus, they do not correct any learning for the students that took the test. Also, the results just tell educators a score, not why the student made that score.
So teachers can cover more material, so students usually get a shortened recess, if any. Thus, teachers teach for the test rather than teaching the skills needed for students to take the test. Hence, teachers and students feel the pressure of the test. As a result, they get stressed.
A test score impacts a student’s confidence. They see the results as a sign of their ability. They feel like a failure. Also, some students have a mental block when they have to take tests. They do not perform at their usual level because of stress.
Tests also impact school funding. Scoring low on state tests does not give the school the funding they need. Funding helps to improve a school’s performance and provides important professional development for teachers.
Unfortunately, students, teachers, and families do not have a say in taking these tests. Their only alternative is to opt-out. Many states design and manage state-wide assessments. However, under the Every Student Succeeds Act, “public school students must take state standardized tests in mathematics and English language arts annually in grades three through eight and once during high school.”
