Is exam stress getting in the way of your social life? Do you question the rationale behind how standardized exams in school justify your learning? Yes, the necessity behind frequent exam testing is a controversial topic, however, it does determine an individual’s approach to learning under scholarly circumstances.

Woodstock follows a system of standardized exams because it is a requirement established by schools all around the world. The reasoning behind this concept varies from person to person from positive to negative. Some students see exams as an opportunity to improve their knowledge of a subject. On the other hand, these so-called exams can also affect an individual’s physical and mental well-being.

We were given the privilege to obtain perspectives from GAIL Schools across the world. The Global Alliance for Innovative Learning (GAIL) is a progressive confederation of eight schools that compare their comparable educational principles and ideals. These schools are Kimball Union Academy (USA), Kristin School (New Zealand), Newton College (Peru), Prestige College (South Africa), Robert Gordon College (Scotland), Scotch College (Australia), Western International School of Shanghai (China), and, of course, Woodstock School.

By interviewing GAIL students from different backgrounds, we at Woodstock can narrow down a more subjective response on the relevance of standardized testing.

Emma Venus, age 16, a Scotch College student, believes that the necessity behind standardized testing “depends on the year level of students.” For instance, students in Grade 6 won’t require consistent testing to test their knowledge. This is because their brain is still developing; thus, they may not be accustomed to coping mechanisms that allow them to deal with excessive stress. According to Emma, “When students associate with stress, they begin to feel negative about other schoolwork as well.” However, in reality, school is broken down into two broad contexts; academics and fun. High school allows a balance of both. The fact that you can set aside time during the day to study with your friends, makes it easier for a person to socialize, as well as be studious. Personally, every academic or social slip-up I incurred was seen as a turning point for me to do better in the future. Everyone must use every indecent grade as an excuse to do better to carve a redemption arc for themselves. For instance, university. Emma believes that if “students can discover what style of revision and learning works best for them, they can achieve better results; hence broadening their learning.” 

In contrast, Charlotte firmly believes that “consistent exam testing can decrease a student’s overall knowledge. The inevitable high-pressure nature of these exams can reduce an individual’s inability to intake information because they often indulge and ‘stress’ on the overall outcome, rather than the process. Charlotte suggests that experiential learning, project-based learning, and mentorship” could be potential alternatives to standardized testing so that students can simultaneously broaden their learning horizons. 

No matter how much an individual studies, the results obtained from their exams often counteract their skill-set and knowledge. However, the finger isn’t always pointed at the students in this situation. There could be confounding factors that determine poor performance in an individual’s exam. For instance, family problems, mental or physical health issues, lack of preparation, and anxiety, are all normal parts of student life. One could prepare excessively for an exam two weeks or more prior, but when the assessment date approaches, their nerves get the best of them. 

I strongly believe that the way you respond to exams depends on the teachers you work with, and how they teach. If teachers make an effort to level with their students, it would allow them to gain their trust and comfort. If a student feels comfortable in the class, they will then be motivated to ask questions and clear doubts with enthusiasm and interest. Therefore, these factors can greatly favor the students in exam performance, allowing them to meet their full potential.

Aditi is a staff writer.

Edited by Asha.