Posted by AuntieMel on March 24, 2006, at 13:39:49
In reply to Re: Subject close to my heart, posted by special_k on March 24, 2006, at 12:27:29
No, that isn't what I'm trying to say. Not at all.
"Those in the middle" contains probably 80% or better of the population. With about 10% on either side. But there are usually one or 2 kids in a class that everyone gives a hard time for being the 'smart' one. And who blow the curve for everyone else. What should they do?
What they often end up doing is not their best - purposely - so they will fit in.
Tests like that can be a tool. One of many. Like I said, they are not indicators of future success - motivation and work are far more important.
And I certainly wouldn't want to label anyone "average" or anything else.
The cases where I've seen testing used to do any kind of separation it was very low-key and subtle. The kids never knew their score and the parents only got it if they asked for it. So, while the school *might* have used it the kids didn't *feel* labeled.
I'm just saying if someone (whoever that invisible 'someone' is) used them as a tool to help design programs it wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing, as long as it isn't the *only* thing taken into consideration.
In my ideal world each kid would be in a class that teaches that kid as much as he can (and is willing to) learn and that brings out all the special talents the kid has.
Unfortunately when it comes to university entrance the test (SAT, GRE) is given too much weight. My youngest, one of the brightest people I know, doesn't test worth a poop. Her SAT scores didn't reflect her ability at all. And it affected the schools she could get into.
But she is doing really well in school.
What I don't understand is why you dislike them so much, and I'd like to understand. It really isn't something I've given a lot of thought to.
poster:AuntieMel
thread:622738
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/poli/20060322/msgs/624192.html