Mr. E.

Standardized testing has done away with learning in schools. To show that a student has learned, all we have to do is teach them how to take the test. They don’t have to do science experiments. Reports about inspirational or famous women in history are out. They don’t even have to read an entire book.

Of course, the purpose of these tests is to make sure that students are prepared to succeed in the real world.

Part of succeeding in the real world requires inquiry and constructing meaning from our experiences. One of the primary tools for such student-centered learning is technology. None of these ideas are valued in the new standards-crazed world of public education.

The states and feds don’t care if a student can really read, write, or solve math. They don’t care if a student lacks the skills to compete in the market with more-tech-savvy members of the same global community. Politicians really don’t care if these students are prepared to solve the world’s problems. That’s supposed to be their job. So, Why aren’t they doing it?

I’m really excited about my new opportunity to work for an organization that provides the tools for inquiry-based learning through the utilization of technology regardless (or in spite of) today’s arbitrary governmental standards. By providing teachers with much-needed training in new technology and inquiry-based pedagogy, students will get the teaching they deserve in order to compete in the global market. In addition, the organization provides several resources in the form of hardware and software that too many studens do without. I can finally step out of the classroom that is defined by state-mandated standards. I can help teachers help students find their own way. This is going to be exciting!

Well, here’s to learning, not testing.