Nancy M. Williams
Supporters of standardized testing cite accountability and consistency as two of its greatest benefits (Kucerik, 2002); new teachers take particular comfort in the consistency factor. Winkler (2002) quotes one teacher as noting that standardized testing “can be beneficial because you want each kid to leave the school with the same experiences” (p. 222).
From many novice teachers' point of view, standardized testing provides a sense of security and assures them that they are including the correct content in their lessons. Such an emphasis enables educators to feel confident about meeting any accountability-related demands.