Response to testing

Katie Rupp
May 16, 2007

We were asked to read three different works by three different authors. these authors have three different opinions on tests in schools. Some of the ideas seem extreme, but they all have valid arguments t back up their ideas.
The first author, Paul Goodman, suggest that schools should abolish testing all together. He argues that students will actually do better when they are not being "punished" and shown their "weaknesses." I do not agree with Goodman. If there were no tests than how would we know who is really learning. Personally, I know that if given the chance, i would rather not study for a big exam.
The second author, Howard Gardner suggests that we should have tests, but they should not be timed. He makes some valid points about the pressure that is on students when time is limited. I happen to agree with Gardner. I think students should have as much time as needed to complete an exam. We are all different and we all take tests differently. I have never had a problem with anxiety and tests, but on the other hand, my sister has. She used to dread taking tests. She is very smart, but never did well on tests. She knew the material, but felt flustered and hurried by the time constraints.
Gardner also goes on to say that students should be able to leave and come back, use dictionaries, and the Internet. I do not agree with that. If a student has sufficiently studied and has as much time as needed, that person should not need any other means of help.
The third author is Diane Ravitch, she defends testing. She believes that the tests should include essays, problem solving, short answers, and multiple choice. She believes that if testing is done away with that more children will, "fall through the cracks" of our education system. I think that would happen as well. I also agree when Ravitch said, "Tests should be used to improve education, not ration it."
In some ways i agree with all three authors, there has to be a middle ground somewhere. Where a student can take a test with as little pressure as possible and yet still be able to measure their intelligence.