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How does testing young children influence educational attainment and well-being?

Author

Listed:
  • Colin P. Green

    (Norwegian University of Science and Technology)

  • Ole Henning Nyhus

    (NTNU Social Research)

  • Kari Vea Salvanes

    (Nordic Institute for Studies in Innovation)

Abstract

Should young children be tested? Proponents view early testing as a necessary instrument for early targeting. Others consider it detrimental to child mental health and with little impact on educational performance. We exploit variation in test-taking in mathematics among primary school children in Norway, traditionally a low-testing environment. We examine both the introduction of difficult mathematics tests and simpler screening tests that were aimed at identifying children in need of assistance. We demonstrate zero effects of testing exposure on later attainment but some benefits from screening tests for low-performing students. There are no negative effects on student welfare, but testing appears to improve aspects of teaching practices, feedback and engagement.

Suggested Citation

  • Colin P. Green & Ole Henning Nyhus & Kari Vea Salvanes, 2023. "How does testing young children influence educational attainment and well-being?," CEPEO Working Paper Series 23-01, UCL Centre for Education Policy and Equalising Opportunities, revised Jan 2023.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucl:cepeow:23-01
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    student assessment; testing; student achievement;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy
    • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality

    NEP fields

    This paper has been announced in the following NEP Reports:

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