By John Q. Hosedrinker accountability and standardization in the admissions process to ensure that all students are being assessed fairly.
When I heard that Yale will again require standardized test scores for admission, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief. The current system of grade inflation at high schools is out of control. I’ve seen firsthand how students can easily game the system with assignments being graded leniently, tardies not counted, and the bar for passing set so low that it’s practically impossible to fail.
The recent restoration of standardized testing at Dartmouth also shed light on the fact that many lower-income students were actually harming their chances of admission by not submitting their scores. This misguided belief that their scores were too low highlights the importance of using standardized tests as an objective measurement of academic ability.
As a current student teacher, I am witnessing the effects of grade inflation and lax grading policies in high schools. The fact that students can receive a passing grade just for writing their name on a paper or showing up for the last 30 seconds of class is concerning. It’s clear that without some form of standardized testing, the admissions process becomes almost meaningless.
While I understand that standardized tests like the SATs are not without their flaws and can perpetuate inequality, they still serve as a crucial tool for assessing students on a level playing field. The subjectivity of GPAs and the varying levels of grade inflation make it difficult for colleges to truly evaluate the academic preparedness of applicants.
The move by Yale to reinstate standardized test scores for admission is a step in the right direction. It not only provides a standardized measure for assessing applicants but also helps to address the rampant grade inflation and lack of accountability in high schools. It’s time to recognize the importance of standardized testing in the admissions process and ensure that all students are being evaluated fairly and accurately. The recent decision by Yale to once again require standardized test scores for admission has sparked a range of reactions and discussions. For me personally, this reinstatement brings a sense of relief and validation. The issue of grade inflation at high schools has been a growing concern, with students easily manipulating the system to achieve inflated grades. The restoration of standardized testing at Dartmouth highlighted the fact that many lower-income students were actually harming their chances by not submitting their scores, underlining the need for objective measurements in the admissions process.
As a student teacher, I have observed firsthand the effects of grade inflation and lenient grading policies in schools. The practice of awarding passing grades for minimal effort or attendance is not only concerning but also undermines the integrity of the education system. Without standardized testing, it becomes increasingly challenging to accurately assess students’ academic abilities and readiness for college.
While standardized tests like the SATs have faced criticism for perpetuating inequality, they still hold value as a crucial tool for evaluating students on a level playing field. The subjectivity of GPAs and the widespread grade inflation make it difficult for colleges to make fair and accurate assessments during the admissions process. The move by Yale to reinstate standardized test scores represents a crucial step towards addressing these issues and ensuring a more equitable evaluation of applicants.
In light of the rampant grade inflation and lack of accountability in high schools, the importance of standardized testing cannot be understated. By providing a standardized measure for evaluating students, institutions like Yale can ensure a fair and transparent admissions process. It’s time to acknowledge the significance of standardized testing in maintaining academic rigor and integrity in the admissions process, ultimately benefiting both students and educational institutions.