Standardized Tests

For my Political Science class this semester I have chosen to follow political policies on education and will be posting things I have learned and read every week.  Since my children have started going to school, I have seen my interest and concern with the educational system grow.  I want what is best for my children and I want them to have access to the best education and future possible.

I read an article about how standardized testing is beginning to gain resistance.  I believe that standardized testing has its flaws and many parents and schools are fighting to change how standardized tests are used.  Many believe that these tests are hurting schools and students, in that it forces schools to utilize valuable resources to help children how to answer multiple choice questions and strategies to passing tests.  These resources should be used to teach children how to understand what they are learning and to make education fun.

I want my children to feel that their intelligence and success is not measured solely on tests, but that there is so much more to it.  There are many lower income schools that are facing direct negative effects from these tests, and many of these schools are fighting back and refusing to participate in some of these tests, especially the ones that don't seem to serve any purpose.  I do think that there are times when tests are important but I don't think that the sole focus of school time should be spent trying to train children how to pass these tests.