SEO: Hidden consequences behind American test taking

How Aptitude and Integrity Tests are Testing for Neither

New research indicates the American standard of testing individuals may be doing more harm
than good for the recipients of aptitude and integrity tests.
Drugs. Alcohol. Gambling. Addictions of the average American. But, what if I told you
Americans were falling victim to something far more acceptable? Tests meant to determine
aptitude and integrity might actually be doing quite the opposite, according to research done by
F. Allan Hanson, a professor of Anthropology at UMd.
Hanson asserts that using integrity and aptitude tests can act as a life sentence. The result
of the test binds them to the expectation of success or failure. Hanson thinks that children taking
IQ tests at young ages may adapt to the scores as they mature. More specifically, a students
peers and mentors act to meet the expectations of the IQ test, potentially influencing the students
expectation of themselves and his/her potential for success in the future.
[Students] are examined and evaluated less for qualifications or knowledge they already
possess than for what the test results can predict about future actions, Hanson says. He believes
evaluating someones practical ability through their potential limits the test giver and taker.
A look into the soul
Test taking is one way for people to take a glimpse into the mind of the subjects. But, to
have another person peruse through your most intimate thoughts, unable to retreat into the solace
of ones own mind may truly be a shattering experience for those who take polygraph, or lie
detector tests.

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A questioner forces an individual to submit to his line of questioning, while the individual
attaches a device, which measures stress. As the individual answers questions, the questioner
records answers, alongside stress levels corresponding with each answer. Truth and lies can
allegedly be determined for each response, by the person by deciphering these stress patterns.
Hanson thinks these tests are vile and calls them a pornographic gaze into persons
private thoughts. It forces an individual to reveal parts about themselves against their will.
Those who appear in the public eye may feel pressure take a lie detector test in order to establish
credibility, but at what cost to their personal psyche? Sacrificing ones own mental sanctity for
the trust of the public is just the one of many symptoms of Americas addiction to tests.
About the University of Maryland
Established in 1856, the University of Maryland is proud to be a continuing leader in progressive
education. We pride ourselves in our ability to tailor our education to fit our diverse student
body and to individually adapt to those same students needs.

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