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In a society where education is already so competitive, standardized testing only adds more competition to the mix. Competition is a necessary aspect of education; it motivates other students, inspires them to try their hardest and work to their full potential. However, the proper form of competition is also necessary. Standardized testing is an area of education that puts a huge and often unnecessary strain on students. The purpose of it is clear: to test ones’ ability to achieve a set standard. It is not a new concept and in many ways it is necessary in order to assure adequate knowledge to be able to move on to the next level of education. But it has grown to become so competitive and stressful that it is feared by many. Tests such as the ACT, SAT, MCAT, LSAT, NREMT are so strict in terms of rules and regulations during the test that many students do not perform well in their first attempt due to the competitive mental factor of the test setting. When students do not pass their first time, they are often discouraged to take it again for fear of failing a second time. Yet again, this concept of a culture of fear is seen affecting the outcome of those taking standardized tests and their results. If students are gripped by a fear of failing, they quickly become less motivated to pursue their goals. This fear of failure is seen in Little Brother when Jolu and Van decide not to pursue taking down the DHS with Marcus. To them, changing the way the country is monitored and reversing the overall culture of fear is not worth the risk they would be taking by participating in the fight.  

Too Standardized?