The Blue Board

Later on in that "article" they discuss how final exams are not a good thing either. Not that testing to see what you've learned is bad, but that some massive comprehensive final simply contributes to this cram cram cram, grade only oriented mind set. They talk about how comprehensive tests given regularly throughout the year (like weekly) seem to support a better system of actually learning material.

No one is saying let's ditch responsibility or stop finding a way to figure out who is best suited for things based on education, but personally I think it's very evident we have a system that focuses solely on "good grades" regardless of learning (the standardized test effect) and that we simply punish those who aren't "learning as quickly" rather than taking steps to help those slower students succeed. And I don't mean doing the latter at the expanse of allowing smart students to excel. This article is focused solely on high school and lower, not college on. They're kids for God's sake. Responsibility is all well and good, but it's the SAT and ACT we've told them is important, not actually being smart.