This article discusses the ongoing debate over standardized testing in higher education, highlighting how it intersects with broader challenges facing universities today. The author, a veteran high school English teacher, reflects on the impact of pandemic-era changes, including relaxed academic standards and increased reliance on artificial intelligence (AI). These factors have created a complex environment where traditional assessment methods struggle to measure student capability accurately. The piece references specific incidents, such as a shooting at Brown University that led to changes in exam formats, and notes that many institutions, including UC schools, have moved away from using standardized test scores in admissions. The author argues that these developments complicate efforts to assess student readiness and raise concerns about the effectiveness of current educational practices.
Bias read (Center): While the article addresses politically charged topics like standardized testing and AI use in education, it presents a balanced view by discussing both the historical context of testing and the contemporary challenges faced by educators. The author does not overtly favor one side over another but,





