PISA 2012 results

The Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) results were recently released by the U.S National Center for Education Statistics for the 2012 testing cycle.  The PISA assesses 15 year old students math, science, and reading performance.  The test, given every three years, is administered in sixty-five different countries.  This year, Florida, Massachusetts and Connecticut participated in the PISA,

In Mathematics, the United States scored an average of 481, placing us lower than 29 countries, and above 26.  There was no measurable change on the math results since the test was last administered in 2009 (nor 2003, and 2006 for that matter).  Many other countries followed suit, but 18 demonstrated significant improvements.

In science, the United States scored a 497, scoring lower than 22 other countries, and above 29.   Again, this score did not demonstrate gains from previous testing cycles where thirteen other countries showed improvements.

Thirdly, in reading the United States scored lower than 19 other nations, and above 34 with a score of 498.  In reading, there was no noticeable improvement.  21 other countries demonstrated measurable reading gains.

The PISA scores have caused a lot of hype.  The Washington Post anticipated this chaos in saying, "[the scores] don't mean much, if anything, but that doesn't stop people from saying they do" (Dec 1).  This year, a website was created specifically for the release of the PISA scores, where different organizations can post their announcements and reflections (PISADay.org).

U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, described the results as "straightforward and stark... educational stagnation", frustrated by our nation's lack of progress since the test was first administered in 2000.  Duncan pointed out that the United States has had other educational gains, such as improved NAEP results and less drop outs but ultimately declared that redesigning schools was necessary.  (www.ed.gov)

President Barak Obama compared the United State's position in the test results to the Space Race between the Soviet Union in the late 1950s, fearing that the global economy is slipping away from America.  (www.nytimes.com)

Educational Historian Diane Ravitch reminds us that the United States was never at the top of international assessments.  Realistically, our country has been producing average scores for years.  She proceeds by pointing out that nations' economic growth has no correlation with its test scores (according to Keith Baker "Are International Tests Worth Anything?").  She further supports this in saying, "Never do they explain how it was possible for the U.S. to score so poorly on international tests again and again over the past half century and yet still emerge as the world's leading economy, with the world's most vibrant culture, and a highly productive workforce" (DianeRavitch.net, Dec 3).  Ravitch concludes her recap of the PISA results with 4 lessons.  First, the PISA results are indicative of failed public policy in the united states.  Testing and accountability are not the answer.  Secondly, Florida, a state that puts strong emphasis on testing, is proof of this.  Thirdly, we must improve the quality of life for students in poverty if we want improved scores.  And finally, a standardized test only measures a limited portion of a student.  There is no result that demonstrates imagination, instinct, creativity, etc. (DianeRavitch.net)

I am torn.  I agree with Ravitch that we should take these scores lightly.  As previously stated, a "bubble" test is not a precise instrument that can be used to assess a nations' success and failure.  On the other hand, the scores are alarming.  Way are so many nations leaping forward while the United States is standing still?  We don't need to be first in the rankings, and the scores may not directly correlate with our economy, but the scores are evidence that our students are not receiving the best education that is out there.


All PISA data from: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/wp/2013/12/03/key-pisa-test-results-for-u-s-students/