To be equal is to have the same privileges, status, and rights of others (Northwest Educational Technology Consortium, 1999). Since it is clearly obvious that equity and equality are not synonymous, it seems only right to try to achieve both in order to reach a more positive, fair outcome. It is clear that by reaching for equality, we can adjust our schools and awareness to create equity and have a better education for all.
Standardized testing.
Standardized testing is used in schools as a means of measuring a student's academic performance. Because of this, many people argue the use of a standard test does not correctly portray knowledge, academic achievement, or academic potential. " there have been recent legislative initiatives to prevent states and school districts that receive funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 from relying solely on standardized test scores to assess student achievement or to make other high-stakes decisions- (Kane, 2001.) Standardized testing eliminates fairness, accuracy, quality, and equity. On the other hand, these tests do provide information on each individual student, as well as reflect on the teachers, schools, and their level. So, I feel that a standardized test can be beneficial, and is necessary.
Standardized tests can offer a variety of information. In addition to conveying policymaker's standards, these tests can provide feedback on curriculums strengths and weaknesses (Abedi and Herman, 1994). Given the information from prior testing, a student would have the opportunity to evaluate achievement over time through different grade levels. Standardized tests would help to pinpoint problem areas for the students across the district. It would also allow for teachers to examine what they are teaching with what is being tested over. Educators and students to would be motivated to improve their performance (Abedi and Herman, 1994).
