Standardised Testing: What is it? Does it Work?
By definition, standardised testing requires all test takers to answer all the same questions in the same way. This is scored using a consistent technique, allowing for results to be cross-examined to draw conclusions about the relative performance of pupils.
In 2019, Standardised testing sparked anger across the country when parents and their toddlers marched in protest to plans that would introduce the method in reception classes.
There are many reasons why standardised testing is heavily critiqued.
Standardised testing fails to account for the different ways that students learn. For instance, a child who excels in verbal learning might appear to do worse in a standardised testing compared to their peers.
Standardised testing reduces creativity. Questions that forced test takers to pick out of A, B, or C leaves no room for creative students to flourish.
Standardised tests are stressful and artificial. As test takers are placed in a silent room, watched over by invigilators, students are not allowed to collaborate ideas or get up and move about. The test conditions hardly reflect that of a normal working environment.
Though, some argue that are are some pros to standardised testing! For example, the test allows teachers to identity problem areas for students as well as giving teachers a structure for what needs to be taught.
The issue of this type of testing is highly contested and is a debate that is constantly rethought. Do you agree with standardised testing? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below!