When considering a commitment to viewing young children holistically I believe that the academic level of each child should be tested. Not all children are created equal, and some children are in need of greater assistance than others. Many times even if the student is extremely bright there may other factors that could be interfering with academic success. So I believe that children should be tested by psychologists and other experts when the circumstances require it. In order to serve the whole child, we must understand what it is that makes this child function.
In Puerto Rico school-aged children are being assessed much the same way the students here in the United States are, especially since the no child left behind (NCLB) mandates were implemented, which means that children as well as the teachers are being assessed.
I think children today are being over assessed, for example 2nd graders in Florida are assessed in the subjects of math and reading 4 times a year. Children today are being over burdened with examination today. What happens in the end is that the children become overwhelmed and refuse to cooperate.
Magda.
Great post Magda,
ReplyDeleteI also believe we should look at the whole child and test in a different manner. To many children are falling through the cracks with education based on the current practices in place. Very interesting about Puerto Rico making sure the teachers are assessed, makes sense!