Page 68 - Microsoft Word - The Future of Learning April 2017.docx

56
The Folly of Standardised Testing
So, why do most learners struggle with the initial rote learning that allows them to master100 reading and writing? The answer is not that popular but, as educators, we need to be aware of the answer to that question and its implications. As we discussed earlier, we have four+1 discrete, but integrated learning systems. But “one of these is not like the others.”
As noted earlier, each learning system uses a variety of different brain cell types and processes with each of the four systems having a unique system for memory consolidation and recall. In this proposed model for how the brain learns, our ability to learn via rote (off-by-heart) is probably a recent adaptation of our second learning system we refer to as ‘sequencing’.
Humans are the only species with all four learning systems, but there are problems with our adaptation of sequencing to learn by rote.
100
10
The mathematics and readingattainment101 in the United States has been tested and recorded over 39 years and the summary graphs for both are to the right. The sample group involves 220,000 students. Both graphs show no overall increases in standards over that 39-year period.102
Resource 26: NAEP Trends in US Reading & Mathematics scores
100 The chapter 11 summary video can be found here https://youtu.be/k3tffKjmtU4 if you are reading the book, otherwise click on the video icon at the top of the page
101 National Assessment of Educational Progress, National Center for Education Statistics National Assessment Governing Board Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. The Nations Report Card -Trends in NAEP reading and mathematics average scores for 9-, 13-, and 17-year-old students. Retrieved from https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/ltt_2012/summary.aspx