#5 too much emphasis on assessment and accountability instead of on curriculum and responsibility

In an article titled, The Global Search for Education: A View from Norway, the author discusses some of the advantages of the Norway Education system as well as some of the flaws of the U. S. education system. One of the most distinguishing characteristics in Norway's education system is that it is predominately focused on the quality of life. This points to the larger issue of comprehensive education. In this type of education system, students acquire knowledge and experience within demographically diverse learning milieus and face a multitude of expectations that are both cultivating and qualifying. Unfortunately in the United States, we have schools where students are grouped according to their abilities and aptitudes which is reportedly not as effective. 

Naturally, the issue of standardized testing arises. Policy makers and practitioners make gigantic decisions, based on the results of standardized tests, which ultimately affect education. One of the major flaws in this system is that these tests are limited in scope in measuring the quality of teaching and learning in schools. These types of tests are not so good as measuring the content and methods of teaching.

Elements such as critical thinking and other dimensions of human interest and intelligence must be taken into account. In order to become an educated citizen there are many important skills that must be developed such as individual capacity, communication, and receptive skills which are fostered through understanding, interpretation and reflection. In our current education system within the U.S. these types of skills are not measured.

So how do we better address the emotional well-being and intellectual potential of the individual? The charge to the school systems is to promote core values like dignity and respect. This means to stress responsibility over accountability and reform the assessment procedures based on the overall aims of schooling. In Norway, they traditionally address both emotional well-being and the intellectual potential of the individual. It is high time that the U.S. finally adopts these principles as well. We are squelching the joy from our students through standardized testing procedures and constant competition. Instead we could be implementing educational excellence that takes into account the quality of life of individuals and of a society, including artistic and cultural achievements. The United States needs to develop a system where students enjoy themselves and experience a good learning environment. Joy and hard work must go hand in hand.