Are standardized tests an effective tool for measuring student learning?

Set as news: False

Set as news: True

here, there, everywhere, let's keep it here, let's approve it.

i agree with donovan. keep the issue here.  it should be approved.

I think it is a policy decision that has been gradually reinforced over the years. Standardized tests in public schools weren't required in the U.S. until 1994, and they didn't have all this federal funding tied to them until NCLB. To me, that's definitely evidence of external policy-making.

Concur in part, dissent in part.

Effective is better than "adequate."

On the other hand, since standardized tests are common throughout the country (SAT/ACTs), and even within schools themselves (California's Golden State Exam) - I like it under the general topic of "education."  What about the optional AP tests?

Even without the NCLB rules, standardized tests of various sorts are a basic and common aspect of education - the topic ought to stay here, rather than "policy" (which to me, indicates political matters that take place outside the school - how much money do they get? etc.).

Agreed. I'll propose a new issue in Ed. Policy.

issue revision:

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edited as per suggestions. previous version archived for reference:

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I agree with Jacki, change adequate to effective, move it to the policy subcategory, and lets run with it.  Good issue.

i am fine with this issue except i might reword the adequate method.  what about effective?  adequate is too low a standard.  effective seems more appropriate.  also, does this issue belong under the Education Policy topic??