Standardized testing originated in the early 20th century and was pushed in schools during the Cold War to compare math and science skills. The public has mixed views on testing and whether scores should be publicly reported. For primary students, tests can boost confidence but also lower self-esteem, while developing study skills but potentially discouraging those who don't score high. In high school, tests prepare students for college but also increase stress and workloads. Current issues include teachers being fired for low scores and equal testing of English learners. The future may see continued funding linkage to scores and more school reform pressure.

1. Standardized TestingGood or Bad?By: John Lees

2. Outline:Origin of testingWhat does the public think?Primary school pros & consSecondary school pros & consCurrent issues at handWhere is standardized testing headed?

3. Standardized tests in the U.SFirst form of test in the U.S was the IQ test (1914-1918)(wikipedia.com)Really pushed into schools during the cold warBeginning tests concentrated on math and scienceMore recently used for ease of computer grading and comparisonAllows government to compare areas

4. Public ViewsGive reason behind funding for designated areasAllows parents to compare their child to national averagesScores presented to public through government websiteMixed feelings on whether they should be given

5. Primary TestingEmotional pros & cons on testingPros:-Shows child his or her success on the material-Gives confidence towards preparation skills-Encourages the child to continue learningCons:-Possibly lower self esteem if low score is received-Make the child that preparation doesn’t make a difference-Could create a fear of learning and test taking

6. Primary TestingCognitive pros & cons on testingPros:-Gives the child crucial study skills-Helps develop time management skills -Can encourage a well rounded educationCons:-Child may not yet have the ability to study vast amounts of material-Not all children can process material at the same speed-If the child doesn’t score high in a certain area they may decide they hate the subject

7. Primary TestingPhysical pros & cons on testingPros:- Allows for the child to practice routine change-Child gains experience on academic stress-Possibly first experience with long duration testingCons:-Children with certain disabilities may not adapt well to change in routine-Child lose composure under pressure-If a child has a learning disability(ADD,ADHD) test duration may be an issue

8. Secondary TestingEmotional pros & cons on testingPros:-Success may encourage academic interest-Let the student be open about his or her achievements-Creates optimism for pursuing higher educationCons:-Failure may act as a deterrent towards education-Create insecurities about the students learning abilities-College may seem like an impossible task

9. Secondary TestingCognitive pros & consPros:-Enables the student to develop all comprehension skills-Creates the ability for a student to identify what skill to use-Prepares the student for college level coursesCons-Test is taken before comprehensions skills are developed-Mind may get mixed up on what technique to use-Students may feel they aren’t mentally equipped for college

10. Secondary TeachingPhysical pros & cons on testingPros:-Enables the student to learn how to deal with stress-Skills to manage your study time, and test time-Learn how to focus on material for that durationCons:-Limits student to do normal school work-Adds more of a work load to students during school year-Forces students to attempt work above their skill level

11. Current IssuesTeachers getting fired as a result of low test scoresStudents with English as second language given the same testFunding being taken away during a time of need

12. Where is testing headed?Continuing to determine funding for school districtsMore pressure on teachers over students successRigorous reform in schools all aroundGreater impact on opportunities for students

13. SummaryHow testing came aboutWhat people think about testingEffects on elementary students all aroundEffects on high school students all aroundIssues at handWhat will happen in the near future

14. SourcesImages from:-static.family.go.com/images-meds.queensu.ca-www.howstuffworks.com(Photographer: Sebastian Kaulitzki)Family.go.comInformation on slide 3 from:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standardized_testConsulted with Robin Barney-Lees M.A Language arts/elementary education