Most colleges now request standardized tests for undergraduate admissions and set high expectations for applicants. In my opinion, standardized tests, such as the ACT, are not accurate measurements of intelligence; thus, they should not be considered an integral part in applying to post secondary schools. Grades, instead, are a far more accurate representation of a student’s ability in class, as they are based on time management skills, conceptual understanding, application of the knowledge, and study habits. These are all skills that are also used in everyday life, and they certainly show a more accurate representation of the type of student to universities.
Students often focus more on test preparation and practice than in exploring interests that ignite passion for further enlightenment. As mentioned by Manya Waldia (‘16), “ACT testing should be optional because it disregards students’ individualism and personal strengths. The main trouble is that students from all over the U.S. have learned different things with varying degrees of background knowledge, so it is not easy to pinpoint exactly the extent of the student’s knowledge. College applicants should be asked to demonstrate practical intelligence and creativity instead.”
The accumulation of knowledge over the years in high school is a much better representation of a student’s ability than what they can cram into their brain in a matter of a couple weeks or months. The skills learned over the school year, such as communication, organization, leadership, participation, and perseverance, which are demonstrated by grades, are much more pertinent in the upcoming future. Universities should want to know about those qualities a student may possess over how well they can recall ACT testing tips and facts they crammed prior to the test.
Most importantly, the time component of standardized testing prevents numerous students from demonstrating their knowledge. Very few tasks in life involve being able to complete math problems and read passages rapidly. Because of this, it is reasonable to say that dedication and effort, not speed, would far more accurately demonstrate a worker’s aptitude in real life in any level of expertise. Therefore, ACT testing for all Wisconsin students definitely calls for protesting!