In our class lecture last Monday, we presented a hypothetical school board proposal. Groups of students were divided to argue different positions that would likely be presented in the school community. Some groups were to support the proposal, while others were to oppose it, each for their own reason. Although this originated simply as a class activity to get us thinking in certain directions, debate quickly became seriously heated.
The main issue in the hypothetical proposal, was how to handle standardized testing and successfully implementing "No Child Left Behind" policy. While necessary to gauge students' progress and achievement, there is strong reasoning that the setting of a standardized test is often detrimental to accurately gauging students' abilities.
As I move deeper into the realm of a public educator, I'm sure I will be presented with all of these different opinions. It is important to value different groups and individuals' views, yet sill be able to clearly process and work towards what is best for my students.
Education Needs New Ideas
13 years ago
2 comments:
I got a lot out of this debate as well. Glad to hear you did too. That last statementa is very thought-provoking ... How do we address all of the different groups' concerns and still keep in mind the utimate goal: do what is best for the students?
I enjoyed this activity. It really got me thinking about how NCLB and specifically standardized testing could affect us as music educators. I agree that we have to value different views, but still hold strong to what we believe is best for our students.
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