SATs and the illusion of fairness

SATs and the illusion of fairness

Author: Ethical Schools June 26, 2024 Duration: 44:31

We speak with Harry Feder of FairTest, an organization that advocates for fair and open testing, about the reinstitution of standardized test requirements at some “Ivy Plus” colleges, and why it matters. We discuss how testing choices affect inclusion and exclusion in admissions and what most non-“Ivy Plus” schools do. In a follow-up interview with Harry Feder, we will discuss standardized tests in K-12 schools.

Overview

00:00-00:46 Intros
00:46-05:06 History of college admissions tests
05:06-08:33 What the SAT purports to test and what it tests
08:33-10:33 The SAT, admissions, and math
10:33-12:52 Standardized tests and reading
12:52-18:41 When colleges moved toward test-optional and test free
18:41-24:40 Colleges reinstituting test requirements
24:40-30:52 Admissions policies and a more democratic society
30:52-34:50 The issue of grade inflation
34:34- Outro

Transcript

Click here to see the full transcription of this episode. 

References


Conversations about education often focus on test scores and curriculum, but there’s a deeper layer that truly shapes a student’s experience. Ethical Schools digs into that layer, exploring what it means to build a learning community grounded in integrity and care. Each week, hosts Amy and Jon sit down with educators and innovators who are actively reimagining schools. You’ll hear specific, grounded discussions about the practical work of creating environments where every student feels safe and respected. The dialogue frequently addresses how to support young people dealing with trauma, moving beyond theory to share actionable strategies that teachers are using right now. More than just problem-solving, this podcast highlights how to empower students themselves to become advocates and changemakers in their own communities. It’s a series that connects philosophy with daily practice, looking at the social and cultural structures within schools through a lens of ethics. For anyone invested in the future of education-whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or simply a concerned community member-this podcast offers a thoughtful and necessary perspective on the foundational values that make education meaningful.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 240

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