Standardized tests can be scary for students. I remember getting nervous if there was any test that I knew was important. And I saw how my kids had to endure them. So that inspired this standardized tests cartoon.
There are pros and cons to using them. And let’s face it: no one likes standardized tests! But for adults, none of our tests are standard.
So Many Tests
I used to think I’d be so glad to move on from school because there would be no more tests. Boy was I wrong! Each day, we face all kinds of tests.
- Do we do the right thing, or try to ignore injustice and hope it goes away?
- What about when we are tempted to follow the crowd when we know we don’t agree with the prevailing wisdom?
- How about the tests we endure when we are under stress and feel anger, fear, or just plain overwhelmed?
In other words, what do we do with all the un-standardized tests we take each day? Our trials, temptations, and obstacles are just as unique as we are.
We look at tests as a bad thing because of the stress involved and the possibility we won’t pass. But how can we grow if we are never tested?
Education without application is just entertainment.
Tim Sanders
We need tests because if we never apply what we have learned, it’s just entertainment. Now I know that may sound strange to a student because education doesn’t appear to be entertaining. Yet, what is the point of education if we never learn anything?
Tests are valuable because they give us a clue as to what we have really learned. It’s too bad standardized tests come with so much baggage. If they are done right, perhaps it could be a good tool to gauge if a student really grasps what they’ve been taught.
There are so many tests you get to take as an adult. There is no grade, just pass-fail. Even so, I’m still terrified of red pens. They give me hives!
One thing is for sure, it is far better to enjoy a standardized tests cartoon than actually experience a standardized test!
Editor’s Note: I originally published this blog on October 6, 2015. I revamped and updated it for timeliness and comprehensiveness.
