Nikhil Goyal - The Tyranny of Testing

Nikhil Coil, author of 'Schools on Trial,' shares his experiences with the No Child Left Behind policy and its impact on education. He criticizes standardized testing for distorting intelligence measurement and advocates for alternative assessments like portfolios and performance-based tasks. He highlights the New York State Performance Standards Consortium as an example of progressive education. Nikhil calls for parents, students, and educators to opt out of standardized tests to promote genuine learning.

What was one of the main effects of the No Child Left Behind policy on classrooms according to Nikhil Coil?

• More personalized learning experiences

• Introduction of new technology in classrooms

• Transformation into test preparation centers

• Increased focus on creative subjects

How does Nikhil Coil describe the standardized tests in terms of measuring intelligence?

• As a comprehensive measure of intelligence

• As a distorted measure of intelligence

• As an accurate reflection of real-world skills

• As a necessary tool for educational success

What does Nikhil Coil suggest as a better way to measure intelligence?

• Through standardized test scores

• By using portfolios and authentic assessments

• Through teacher evaluations

• By increasing the number of tests

Which group of schools does Nikhil Coil mention as using alternative forms of assessment?

• Texas Educational Reform Group

• California Alternative Schools Network

• Florida Innovative Schools Association

• New York State Performance Standards Consortium

What does Nikhil Coil urge parents, students, and educators to do regarding standardized tests?

• Embrace standardized testing

• Opt out of standardized tests

• Focus solely on test preparation

• Ignore alternative assessments