Standardized Testing

We've all taken a test. Whether it was for school, our jobs, or perhaps even a driver's permit, we have all been made to prove our knowledge by taking a test at some point in our lives. A test, every now and then, might not always be welcomed, but it is normally expected. Some things you either know, or you don't, and written tests have long been the accepted way of proving this. However, what if this weren't the case? Studies have shown that standardized testing actually reduces effective classroom practices, as it forces teachers to adopt one-size-fits-all methods in an effort to teach in coordination to the anticipated test. This being said, for the sake of learning, wouldn't it be better to do away with standardized testing altogether? The short answer, for many state and county departments, is no. Despite criticisms from both teachers, and students, education departments far and wide have not sought to implement any sort of alternative to standardized testing because, simply put, there isn't one. Students receive various forms of education in different states and counties, and the one thing that every student is expected to complete - the one constant - is a standardized test. More specifically, the ACT or SAT. When applying for colleges, a student's ACT or SAT score is normally one of the first pieces of required information. Since these tests are the same for everyone, they are often reliable when measuring certain academic aptitudes. 

Standardized test bubble sheet.

Standardized testing isn't gong anywhere, at least not anytime soon. So how do we, as educators, ensure that we are still effective in the classroom, despite standardized tests dictating our curriculum? The solution will be different for everyone, but for me, I have a preference. When I was in high school, my sophomore year, everything shifted to ACT prep. I had a new class specifically for test taking strategies, and was made to take specialized ACT prep classes in each of the four tested areas my junior year. ACT preparation was kept completely separate from my regular classes, and because of that, I benefitted. My teachers were able to focus on their subject areas while subtly incorporating test prep, while my ACT specific classes prepared me to actually take the test. I ended up taking the test only once, and made a 30 composite score. Testing isn't everyone's strong suit, but, in my opinion, through teaching in this manner, students can learn independent of the test, then transition to actually taking the test by using the strategies they've learned.