What is the primary purpose of standardized testing in education?

The primary purpose of standardized testing in education is to assess student learning outcomes across various demographics. This process allows educators and policymakers to measure how effectively students are learning the intended curriculum and to evaluate educational achievement across different groups, including variations in race, socioeconomic status, and educational backgrounds. By analyzing these outcomes, stakeholders can identify areas where students excel and where they may need additional support, ultimately guiding curriculum development and instructional strategies.

Standardized testing also facilitates comparisons over time and across schools, which can help inform decisions regarding resource allocation, educational policy changes, and interventions aimed at improving student performance. This focus on evaluating learning outcomes emphasizes the goal of ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to achieve educational success.