Monday, February 27, 2012

Research Paper Sources 4

http://www.2facts.com/icof_story.aspx?PIN=i1400550

Supporters of standardized testing claim that it is an important standard to make sure students have basic math and reading skills. They can help identify weaknesses in individuals and the school. But some states require these tests in order to graduate, which may put into question the future of some students. They call them "high stakes tests" because they have such a large impact on students' lives. Critics argue that these tests don't raise kids' grades or achievement levels. They highlight the disadvantage that minorities and low income students have in preparing for the test.  Standardized tests do not accurately measure the skills students need to succeed after high school, and research has shown that the exams do not reflect academic achievement.

Research Paper Sources 3

http://www.2facts.com/icof_story.aspx?PIN=i0502310

Schools have supported standardized testing to determine the performance level of its students.
Opponents argue that standardized tests don't accurately measure students' abilities. They are also biased against students from disadvantaged backgrounds. It discourages actual learning, as teachers start "teaching for the test" instead of promoting real learning. People are also against government intervention and believe that state or local governments should be in charge of education standards. Others point out that "standardized tests emphasize the wrong kind of learning". Knowledge is more than memorizing facts or methods.

But proponents argue that these tests are the only way to measure success objectively, as school grades are partially subjective. It also helps to identify specific areas of improvement.