In recent years, a growing number of school districts have decided to eliminate final exams, also known as exit exams, citing research that shows that standardized testing fails to capture the full scope of student learning potential and abilities.
According to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing, or FairTest, only nine states currently still require graduation or exit exams.
Since students were unable to take in-person exams during the pandemic, the role of their purpose and usefulness came into question.
The Role of Exams in Academic and Personal Development
Exams have long been a staple of the education system, serving as key milestones for assessing student understanding and readiness. Eliminating them overlooks the benefits of experiencing and managing academic stress.
Imagine applying this logic to other areas of life:
- Should we eliminate driving tests because they cause stress for prospective drivers?
- Or abolish bar exams for lawyers and medical licensing exams for doctors?
Clearly, this is impractical and could lead to serious consequences.
Tests provide a snapshot of student concept mastery, such as the subject facts they remember. But that’s not all: test results can also provide insights into non-cognitive skills, such as a student’s ability to organize information, prioritize their time, assess information, and demonstrate perseverance.
Why Exams Matter
1. Preparation for Future Challenges
Education aims to prepare students for the future, including teaching them how to handle stress effectively. Moderate stress levels, like those experienced before and during an exam, can motivate students to prepare thoroughly, review material, and practice essential skills—habits invaluable in higher education and the workforce.
2. Academic Readiness
Many students will go on to pursue post-secondary education, where exams are still common. It would be a disservice if their first encounter with a final exam is in college. High schools are crucial in ensuring students are well-prepared for these academic challenges.
3. Fair Assessment
While various methods exist to assess student learning, final exams remain one of the most accurate, efficient, and fair ways to understand student comprehension of course material. They provide a structured way to measure learning outcomes that alternative assessments may not always capture.
Set your child up for academic success—explore our expert guide.
Our Commitment to Supporting Students
At GradePower Learning, we believe in preparing students for all aspects of their educational journey. While we support innovative and diverse assessment methods, we also recognize the value of traditional exams. We are dedicated to helping students manage academic stress effectively and develop strong study habits. Our experienced tutors provide personalized support to ensure that students are prepared for their exams and equipped with the skills needed for lifelong success.
Let us partner with you to ensure your child’s academic success. Contact us today to learn more about our tutoring services and how we can support your students through every stage of their educational journey.
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