Lately, I’ve noticed the huge impact of testing on our kids and teachers. It seems that all curiculum is pushed to the side this time of the year and the focus becomes THE TEST! I understand the importance of these tests, especially since it all boils down to finacial assistance for schools.
But what can teachers do? I feel like their is this huge pressure to review and teach to the test, but does this benefit the students or the school?
This is also incredibly difficult for inclusive room teachers. They have a huge range of abilities, what are they supposed to focus on for the test? And once again is teaching the test instead of focusing on improving their reading skills (for example) more important?
:roll:
Well I certainly agree and I continue to believe it’s just a matter of time till the legislated testing is legislated away. No one is happy with it and the accountability it was supposed to provide doesn’t satisfy anybody.
I think people want safe schools and schools that provide their children with a good school experience - not just schools that can get children to pass a standardized test.
On another board a teacher said modern education was ‘a mile long and inch deep’ and I think testing is to blame for that.
Remember, Confucius said ’ and this too shall pass…”