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Testing, 1 2 3 Testing
A propos of the Ontario teachers’ unions who want a moratorium on testing in the wake of the cheating scandal, Michael Zwaagstra makes some very sensible comments in the Windsor Star. For example, Zwaagstra responds to the criticism that the tests take too much time by suggesting that teachers show fewer movies in class. Zwaagstra is a teacher himself, so he can say such things.
The only thing we might add is that a more logical response to criticisms of Ontario provincial testing would be to address any shortcomings, as opposed to ditching the tests entirely. Thermometers aren’t perfect either, but no one would suggest they be abandoned entirely. The EQAO can - and should - improve their tests and, failing that, we ought to consider the use of better standardized tests, like the Canadian Achievement Tests or the Canadian Tests of Basic Skills. These tests are much less expensive, quicker to administer, yield faster and better information, and their results can be compared to other jurisdictions.