According to the NY Times, the U.S. Dept. of Education is attempting to overhaul the archaic and ineffective system of standardized tests as we know them.  Currently, students spend hours and hours filling in small bubbles or squares on a computer-friendly answer sheet to assess their progress in various subjects.  Although the system is known to be flawed, educators are required to administer these tests so that each state has a method of measuring student achievement. 

Reportedly, educators across the country are working collaboratively to create an alternative assessment system.  The Times article indicates that technology will be the main format.  Students will take computerized tests that vary in form and format.  These new tests will produce nearly instant results, providing teachers and students necessary feedback for improvement, something that is lacking in the current system. 

As an educator, I am encouraged to hear that our students will not be subjected to bubble sheets for much longer.  However, as with the standardized tests on today, there is much risk involved in trying to evaluate and assess student achievement in every discipline in a like manner.  I'm not sure that computer-based testing will allieviate the issues that today's students face.  Students need the opportunity to display their knowledge in a variety of formats, just as they have learned it and just as they will need to apply it in real life.  Assessments should be created with the subject, instructional goals, and student ability in mind.  I'm just not sure that any mass-produced, mass-implemented assessment tool will really capture the achievement of each individual student.