Students nationwide are starting to speak up and question the use of timed tests in schools. Much of the student body throughout the country is contemplating the necessity, accuracy, and complications of timed tests. This matter certainly has differences of opinion, leading to the debate over whether timed tests need to go or are here for the long run.
Over the past few years, timed tests have been put to the test and are on their way out. Arguments against the continuous use of these tests say they are stress-causing and only a detriment to
students’ potential performance. On the other side of this movement are those who believe performing
under high-stress situations is an essential life skill. They argue that timed tests are better than
the statistics reveal. Supporters also say timed tests are acceptable as long as the test time is
reasonable.
When looking at the downsides of timed tests, one journalist from The New York Times wrote, “Time
pressure rewards students who think fast and shallow – and punishes those who think slow and deep.”
These statements support the idea that timed tests stress young students out and don’t allow them to perform to their best abilities. Many others follow this lead, believing that tests such as these should not continue to be used due to the proven downsides.
However, others espouse that timed tests are crucial to students as they learn how to deal with and live in the real world. These tests teach young minds to think quicker and more efficiently while exercising memorized facts. When questioned in The New York Times, Joe Carey states, “… you should be able to complete the task promptly if you know what you are doing.”
This debate over what is best for young minds regarding test taking has yet to be tipped to one side.
Both opinions on the subject matter have most definitely been voiced. Concerns and worries about what
would come of this were brought up, with people saying, “If we aren’t exposed to stressful situations early on, we will not be ready for the more consequential stress that comes with living.” Overall, this issue could be a significant turning point in education.
