We Need to Help Kids See They Are So Much More Than Their Test Results
We need to help children see that they are so much more than their test results
We live in a world where test scores and scores matter a lot.
Although most of us recognize the limitations of testing and challenge using it solely for grading, it is still a practice ingrained in our educational system. Schools are ranked based on their test scores, often putting communities in fierce competition with one another and further widening the performance gap.
Test scores are also used to reward (and therefore not reward) teachers, who often have very little power to make much of an impact on results. For example, performance-based pay for teachers is a reality in many districts.
And then there are the children. Testing places students immediately, beginning at a very young age. Those who do well receive praise, recognition, and higher rankings, while those who struggle with testing are often left behind.
Study after study, like this one from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, tells us that standardized tests affect students' self-esteem and well-being. Yet, scores are still incredibly important to parents, schools, districts, and society as a whole. While we may not be able to revise these practices overnight, we can do our part to show students that they are much more than just their test scores.
Get our free Tests Can't Measure poster to download and hang in your classroom.
Then read on to learn more about the qualities that tests can't measure.
The power of the still (I can't do that yet...yet) is a message emerging in classrooms across the country as part of efforts to foster a positive growth mindset. Studies, like this one from the American Psychological Association, tell us that self-determination promotes learning and improves after-school outcomes. So keep encouraging your students to have that can-do attitude. Hard work pays off.
Why are some people more creative than others? That answer has baffled scientists for years, but recent research suggests that creative brains really are "wired" differently. Being creative can mean so many different things - remind your students regularly and celebrate those creative moments, big and small.
Compassion is definitely something we all need at some point in our lives. And at the same time, it is very important to learn how to give. This is a trait strongly associated with mindfulness, and it's a wonderful thing for children to have.
You can have the highest test scores in your class, but without ambition, they won't matter much. Ambition, more than tests, can make a huge difference in shaping a student's future. Encourage students to be ambitious and pursue their dreams.
A recent Stanford study recognizes the importance of passion, but also says that telling people to find their passion isn't the best advice. The study concluded that this can limit a student's focus too much. Instead, the researchers say it's important to tell students to "develop their passions." This will encourage students to explore many interests and hobbies.
A good sense of humor is a life skill that will serve your students well for years to come. There are so many benefits of having humor in your life. So remember, if that student in your class -- you know, that One tries to make all the other kids laugh. They may be a nuisance, but they are also working on a very important skill.
Can respect be more important than money when it comes to happiness? This study says it can be done, so keep encouraging respect and acknowledging your students when they show it. By incorporating lessons about respect into your classes and encouraging students to respect themselves, their peers and adults, your children will be primed for long-term success.
Patience can bring strength to both children and adults, but it is not always easy or self-evident. Teachers are rock stars at encouraging kids to be patient, and this is a good reminder to celebrate those moments in the classroom.
There is no doubt that trust leads to long-term success. By setting up your classroom to build trust in students, you can make a big difference in how they see themselves now and in the future.
Kindness is a strong trait to have at any age, and yes, there may be some science behind it. Kindness can increase energy, happiness, and lifespan, according to the Random Acts of Kindness website. Kindness is a common theme that pops up in schools across the country - let's encourage it in the classrooms every day.
What are other characteristics that tests cannot measure? Share in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.
Plus, the realities of test anxiety in our schools.
Yes! I want the tests to not be able to measure the poster
