There are lots of educational evaluations that were being used by educators like me. One that is widely used is standardized tests. Standardized tests evaluate students learning by presenting the same questions in a consistent condition or format. This type of evaluation, enables comparison between students in terms of skills and performance. Learning gaps can easily by identify especially if we compare large groups against state standards or respective peers. Normally, these tests are more accurate when educators are combining it with other methods like classroom observation or classroom group as it provides a more extensive picture of a student’s skill set.

Going to the strengths, these tests provides guidance for curriculum planning. It means that since tests are aligned with grade-based standards, educators have a data that they can use for lesson planning and ensure that the students are following the expectations for a certain grade level. Next, these tests ensure how school performance are at par with the others across the country and the globe. Without these tests, it will be impossible to track data performance manually. Addressing deficiencies and achievement has been the main focus of schools to ensure that they allocate resources where it is most needed. The subjective grading practice was also reduced because it’s pretty straightforward; there’s just right and wrong answer, nothing more, nothing less.

Going now to its weakness, it was criticized that teachers are more focused on test preparation rather than the general education of the student. It means that creativity and critical thinking are no longer explored and the only focus is the scope of the examination. It also brings too much stress and anxiety to learners which affects their mental health thus affecting their performance during the test. Too much worrying can deeply affect your brain function. Instead of having a clear and sound mind, learners have clouded thoughts because of negative feelings and emotions.

To sum up, standardized testing plays a significant role in evaluating student performance and providing accurate data collection measuring academic progress as well as deficiencies; however, it also poses threat to learner’s mental health by acquiring anxiety. Having a balanced approach including other forms of assessment can be helpful to explore one’s creativity and critical thinking. Educators like myself, should be able to keep track of student’s performance and goals but at the same time to help them grow and explore other skills in the most meaningful way.

Sources:

https://www.educationadvanced.com/blog/7-examples-of-teacher-evaluation-methods#:~:text=Common%20methods%20of%20evaluation%20include,and%20reviews%20of%20teaching%20practices.

https://www.schoolsthatlead.org/blog/standardized-testing-pros-vs-cons#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20benefits%20of,as%20much%20attention%20in%20school.

https://www.ulethbridge.ca/teachingcentre/standardized-testing-fair-or-not#:~:text=Conclusion,a%20specific%20student%20has%20learned.