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Test Results in the News

The results of standardized testing and international comparisons always seem to attract attention especially when they are shocking! Reporters often look for attention-grabbing angles so that is how this news is typically framed. It is not uncommon for news reports to make use of simplistic interpretations of data or lump different kinds of data together to draw unwarranted conclusions. For instance, an international examination tested students for their knowledge of algebra a year before U.S. students typically study algebra in school. It's not surprising that U.S. students did not test well in algebra! Another recent report about statewide standardized test results spoke alarmingly about students' lack of knowledge as reflected by below-average test scores. Nowhere did it mention that students had 20 minutes to answer 60 questions. Rapid recall and knowledge are not the same, especially for students who are not practiced in test-taking strategy.

Bring a critical sense to what you read in the newspapers.

When reading about test results, wonder the following:

What was the test designed to measure? Factual recall? Complex thinking?
Were students being tested on what they were taught?
Was there a connection between what was tested and what state or national standards say is important that students should know?
Were students tested in a language they understood?
Was the test measuring rapid recall or thoughtful response?
How does what was tested relate to desired work force skills?

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Lawrence Hall of Science © Sunday, 21-Mar-2010 01:21:17 PDT The Regents of the University of California Contact Parent Portal Updated Thursday, 28-May-2009 11:49:36 PDT