Without tests

Students will learn something with their schools closed, though it may be unwelcome.

Our tutoring consultant reports that the attendance at his place of work this past Saturday was very low.  In part he expected it, because one of the major college admissions tests was scheduled for that day, and those students he had been preparing for it of course would be taking the test.  But he found that the test has been postponed, for the same reason that few students were about: COVID-19.  Many people have been limiting contact with other people, for fear of catching the disease and spreading it about.  Tutoring sessions can be dispensed with when one’s health (or that of others) is on the line.

The unusual nature of this virus outbreak was underlined by the closure of local public schools for an extended Spring Break, amounting to roughly twice the normal period and starting earlier, because of the virus.  For an unusually long time the students will be free of organized classes, quizzes and tests.  Though there are plans for some kind of on-line instruction, by necessity students will be thrown mostly upon their own resources to continue learning.

This brought to our attention how tightly scheduled and organized secondary education is nowadays, especially in its connection to higher education.  Four weeks without progress will make it extremely difficult for classes to finish on time while covering the necessary material.  And those classes designated “Advanced Placement,” offering college credit for good scores, must somehow deal with the nationwide test, whose syllabus is not open to change by teachers, local schools or even school districts.  It remains to be seen how much flexibility will be shown by colleges, or the College Board.

We’ve already commented on some differences between classroom and self-directed learning.  The latter form can be the most effective, or the least.  Among other things, it requires a level of self-discipline in maintaining a schedule that is difficult to develop while one’s schedule is largely determined by others.  If no one will check to see that you’re in your seat in the Geometry class at 10:05, will you open your textbook anyway?

The school closure was met by some students with glee, and others with dismay.  We don’t think we’re being cynical in thinking both reactions are misplaced.  Those who reacted with glee are largely those who, without a structure, will neglect their studies, and will suffer for it in the end.  Those who worry most about falling behind will work hard on their own to make sure they don’t.  All students will have the chance to learn something about themselves.  For some it will be unwelcome.

And many non-students will have an unexpected amount of free time at home these next weeks, as events are cancelled and people take responsible actions in the face of a widespread contagious disease.  What are you going to do with yours?