PODCAST:The Daily
TITLE:The War on the SAT
DATE:2024-01-17 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
In this episode of "The Daily" titled "The Messy Fight Over the SAT," host Sabrina Tavernese and New York Times colleague David Leonhart discuss the controversial role of standardized tests like the SAT in college admissions. The podcast, aired on January 17, 2024, delves into the complex implications of using SAT scores for college entry, particularly in the context of diversity and equity.
Key Points from the Podcast:
Shift in College Admissions:
- Many colleges in the United States moved away from requiring SAT scores during the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning to a test-optional policy. The rationale was to promote diversity in admissions, as standardized tests were perceived to favor wealthier students.
Reassessment of the SAT's Role:
- Recent research suggests that aspects other than the SAT, such as extracurricular activities, essays, and school recommendations, might be more skewed towards affluent applicants. The SAT is seen as a more uniform assessment tool, with test prep having a minimal impact on overall performance gaps.
Gaps in SAT Performance:
- While there are racial and economic disparities in average SAT scores, these gaps reflect broader societal inequalities rather than inherent test bias. Comparisons with other standardized tests, like the NAIP, show similar performance gaps, indicating that the SAT is not uniquely biased.
SAT as a Predictor of College Success:
- The SAT has been shown to be a good predictor of academic success in college, especially at selective institutions. It is argued that the SAT, combined with high school grades and other factors, can identify students with high potential, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Example of MIT:
- MIT, having reinstated SAT requirements, found that excluding the test led to admitting students who were less prepared academically. Their current admissions policy, which includes SAT scores, has resulted in a diverse and academically strong student body.
Debate Over Standardized Testing:
- The podcast highlights a broader debate about the purpose of higher education: whether it should focus more on promoting diversity and addressing inequality or on identifying and nurturing individual talent based on merit.
Legal and Political Considerations:
- In the wake of a Supreme Court decision against affirmative action in admissions, colleges are cautious about reintroducing SAT requirements. They fear legal challenges, particularly from conservative critics, who may perceive reintroduction as a way to bypass the court's ruling.
Future of College Admissions:
- Colleges are currently reassessing their admissions policies in light of new research and legal developments. The decision to reinstate SAT requirements or to remain test-optional is complex, involving considerations of diversity, equity, academic excellence, and legal compliance.
The episode concludes with the recognition that American colleges are at a crossroads, facing tough choices about how to fairly and effectively select their student bodies while navigating legal constraints and societal expectations.
