Are The SATs Outdated? Essay Example

(Caperton). When students have similar GPAs and achievements, colleges rely on SAT scores to assess college readiness, which makes it an important step in the application process. Supporters believe that SATs should remain because they level the playing field and provide valuable insights into a student's characteristics. Despite criticism about its validity and relevance, the SAT has remained relevant for 93 years and continues to serve a purpose. Colleges are justified in relying on the exam to make difficult decisions when students have comparable extracurricular activities and grades.

Many schools see the SAT as a valuable indicator of college readiness and stress management skills, supported by statistics. However, there are professionals, parents, and scholars who disagree and believe that the SAT is not a reliable measure of college readiness or intelligence. They argue that the test favors privileged students and ignores those from low-income backgrounds who cannot afford expensive preparation services like private tutors or classes.

When the test rolls around, these students are already at a disadvantage before entering the test room. Another reason for people feeling the SATs are obsolete is the fact that it lacks a very important skill set within the actual test, that colleges actually value. The test undisputedly lacks "outside the box thinking" which is a trait colleges seek for enrollment. Randon Busteed, the executive director of Gallup education specifically states that "the biggest problem with standardized testing is that it seeks standardized answers. We're not just overinvesting in standardized testing, we're actually testing standardization" (Busteed). With that being said, the SATs are designed for students to have the same or similar answers.

It is crucial to have a test that assesses

this particular type of intellectual ability. However, it is evident that we are neglecting various other forms of intelligence and skills. Individuals who struggle with tests often possess a unique problem-solving approach and are capable of finding alternative solutions. The point made by people like Aspegren is that these problem solvers are placed at a disadvantage. While some may argue the SATs are not obsolete, they can't deny certain facts. Those who cannot afford test tutoring tend to achieve lower scores compared to those who can afford the expensive tutoring, and there is data available to support this claim. Moreover, the SATs only evaluate standardized intelligence, which is undoubtedly significant, but we must not overlook the significance of numerous other forms of intelligence.

Currently, the SATs possess some positive attributes, but they lack fairness and inclusiveness, rendering the test less impressive than it could/should be. At present, the SATs are an unjust assessment and do not accurately measure intelligence. It is reasonable to evaluate intelligence through testing, although standardized intelligence alone is inadequate. Although it is improbable that the SATs will be discarded, the more ideal solution would involve improving the test, starting with addressing its cost. The college board should provide complimentary tutoring for the exam and financial assistance to individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford it. Additionally, the test should incorporate unconventional thinking options to stimulate the creativity of test-takers.

The SATs should prioritize showcasing the distinctive attributes of students rather than solely emphasizing their academic accomplishments. Altering the test would present an opportunity for all individuals to excel rather than being a disadvantage for some. Nonetheless, since the test determines the futures

of many students, it is necessary to improve and overhaul it. Consequently, it ought to be fair at the very least.