Assessing a group of students to know their level of understanding in a given area of study is very ideal. We can invariably make comparison, separating those who understand from those who do not. We are also able to analyze facets of the area under study to know which was well understood and vice versa. The generalization of these test is carefully done to remove any traces of biases and ensure fairness throughout the whole process. At its best, question is varied from beginners, intermediate to advance questions. In a Standardized test, questions are developed to embrace all levels of learners i.e. cognitive levels of understanding: remembering, understanding and applying. Standardized test is at its best when it seeks to address the various cognitive levels of understanding. Should the question be all advanced then others will be left out which makes It unfair likewise should the questions be all beginners then we expect everyone to pass this will hide any deficiency in the learning process.

In my country, there are two major standardized tests: BECE and WASSCE at the basic and secondary levels respectively. Giving the development levels in all the 16 regions in the country, administering the standardized test is very unfair and I must say it’s at its worst. Schools in the hinterlands lack a lot of basic resources such as a science lab, a computer lab, proper classrooms and many other. These learners are made to sit on the same standardized test with their colleagues in the capitals with well-resourced facilities. Schools that are somewhat marginalized are made to write the same test with schools with the wherewithal.

Unlike PISA that administers bespoke standardized test to countries, within the various countries the story might not be the same with their standardized test.