Most the testing done in schools are measuring a child’s ability to do math, reading, and writing. IQ test are measured to test intellectual aptitude or ability. Can any single test really measure a child holistically? I do not believe so as we have many intelligences and abilities beyond are math, reading, and writing. So many times kids feel they are good at something because of what a test says. I do not like that kids get so wrapped up in tests and grades. I know for many years I felt that these scores defined me as either smart or dumb. When we look at these scores, we miss seeing the whole child and a child can miss out at being the best person they can be. Test do not look at children’s ability to move, socialize, create, and many more areas.
I looked
at New Zealand schools. I have enjoyed
reading how they do literacy in their schools.
As I was researching it sounds like they as well have many assessments
but I like that they do not use one assessment to base a child’s grade. Their assessments include what the teacher
sees in the classroom, how the student rates their own progress as well as the
formal tests.
The other thing that really impressed me was that
the children have a part in evaluating and setting goals and the teacher helps
facilitate this process. The teachers
even go over there standard tests with them.
I liked this as I think real learning takes place when you learn from
your mistakes and you take time to evaluate what you have learned. Also setting goals and being supported toward
your goal is a huge life skill and accomplishment that children can feel good
about. Information taken from the
website below:
Hi Amy:
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree that no one test can determine a child’s abilities. A person is a multitasker, who is capable of achieving so many things. One child may excel in one area more than another child may. It has always been that way. In addition, it is a sad thing that test scores are what society cares about than just seeing that anyone can do anything. If the child is mentored and taught a certain skill, he or she would flourish significantly in that area. I love how New Zealand allows the children to access themselves, which allows the child to have a say-so in their own future and are able to help with the plan to accomplish it. Great blog.
Hi Amy,
ReplyDeleteThere should be more studies done on testing children. Some children benefit from testing but others don't receive the help they need from the result of the testing. I agree that there isn't a single test that really measure a child holistically. School systems get so wrapped up in tests and grades,they don't focus on the child and see what could be done to better their learning environment.Some children judge themselves on the grades they make. Every child enters the world with his or her own unique gifts and talents.
Amy, you hit the nail on the head. Not one test can determine the child as a whole only a small portion. I really enjoyed reading about New Zealand. I think that have a good thing going with cooperative goals and testing. I believe children should be involved, especially at this age level.
ReplyDeleteAmy, So often I feel that the testing done in schools do not benefit the whole child. It is good wihen a teacher goes the extra mile to benefit the needs of the child. It is that extra effort that carries the child on to the next level. I really do not believe that one particular test can determine or measure a child's hostility. Even though tests are given and can interpret many problems or delays in children's progressions; it is up to what takes place after learning what a child needs. Yes, I believe test give insight toward seeing what level a child is on, but it takes someone putting for the effort to aid a child once the level is known. Nice post.
ReplyDeleteAngela Preston