The Effects of Standardized Testing on Teaching and Schools

Key Points

• This research examines the influence of standardized testing on educational practices and outcomes in upper elementary classrooms, focusing on socioeconomic differences.
• Analyzed data from upper elementary classrooms based on socioeconomic status (SES).
• Evaluated the relationship between standardized testing and teaching strategies.
• Assessed the effects of 'teaching to the test' on student performance.
• Standardized testing significantly influences teaching practices, especially in low-SES classrooms.
• Test scores increase when educators adopt 'teaching to the test' methods, particularly in high-SES environments.
• Variations in impact between low-SES and high-SES classrooms were observed, highlighting educational disparities.