Blog assignment Week 6: Testing for Intelligence
This topic has always been an issue for me. When I was in school I made really good grades and was top of my class. But if I heard the word standardized test I would panic and I never did well on this type of test. So my opinion about testing may be way different than others. I had the grades but as for a big test that determined what college I could get in or getting into grad school… I would freak out. My sister was the same way. We always joke around about our family and big standardize test. I feel that kind of testing does not define the academic level of a student. They need to look at the whole picture! From my own experience it can really affect your self esteem and put a real stress on your academic work. I understand the concept of why they use the test, but it does not need to be the only focus. They need to account many other factors besides these standardized test. As the assignment for this week states the early childhood profession needs to recognize that understanding the whole child requires a wider perspective!
When looking at Hungary it seems that they too use standardized testing as an approach to determine the academic level of a child. There school seem much similar to the US and hold teachers accountable for their children’s academic level and use a similar method. I feel that the US holds the teachers more accountable than the governemnt in Hungary. Schools do have to meet requirements that are set for them.
I agree with you that the standardized testing does not give a real picture of the whole child, and really just because they pass or do not pass that test does not mean they are not smart or won't be successful. My husband is one of the smartest people I know and he barely passed high school; they didn't teach to his learning style which is hands on. He had a lower self esteem and there are still things he won't try to do because he thinks he can't. On the other end of it my daughter just took the math test and didn't pass. Because it effects how the school looks, they made her take the test 3 times until she passed. That too is not looking at her learning style. I also never thought about the anxiety of it all. I was a great test taker, so it never occured to me until my son started getting sick before the tests. He has the option to take tests in another room so he is not stressed or rushed, but I also think we need to take that into account when looking at how well the assessment tool is working.
ReplyDeleteThe results of standardized tests are hardly ever used by teachers to improve their teaching. I strongly believe that an informal, relaxed settings where the child can be as much at ease as possible are recommended when doing assessment. Assessing a child within the context of his or her community, the interacting social systems, and taking into account the family's needs, resources, and concerns affect both the evaluation and possible interventions. Indeed, educators should always look at the ‘whole’ child. Educators should look at all areas of child development in relation to the particular aspect of development or learning they are focusing on.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Such standardized tests are needed, but they do not guaranty the success of a child. We must see a child from other different aspects such as culture, age, etc. However, we must admit that a test is needed as a measurement, but it is good only for a certain purpose.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing how standard testing is different in many countries that can be harmful to students.
ReplyDeleteKaren, I just wanted to thank you for sharing your personal stories and insight with us throughout the last 8 weeks. I feel as though I have learned more because of the anecdotes and experiences from others. I felt connected to you through your posts and have really appreciated that!
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