Standardized Tests and Other Criteria in Admissions Decisions: A Classroom Activity

摘要

This exercise aims to provide a hands-on, role-playing activity that requires students to evaluate the strengths and limitations of standardized tests in making admission decisions. Small groups pretend to be an admissions committee and review fictitious student applications containing both standardized test scores and other information admissions committees typically request. The class discusses problems each committee encountered, how much importance to place on the different components of an application packet, and their beliefs about the utility of various admissions criteria. Data indicate that perceptions regarding standardized tests were significantly altered and that students self-reported the activity encouraged both learning and critical thinking.