The SAT is Going Digital. What Does That Mean for Educators?
The New York Times recently reported on some very big news for the world of education— the SAT is going completely digital. By 2024, all SAT testing will be done on computers or tablets, rather than using the iconic #2-pencil for filling in bubbles which students have come to know (and dread) for decades.
This shift comes as the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors have accelerated discussions of moving more assessments into the digital realm, as meanwhile ongoing conversations among educators and legislators attempt to address whether the current state of testing is fair and equitable for students.
The College Board, which administers the SAT test, has already been conducting pilot runs of the new testing format. Results have been very promising. 80% of students who have tried the new digital SAT format reported that they found it less stressful.
“In a largely test-optional world, the SAT is a lower-stakes test in college admissions,” said Priscilla Rodriguez, vice president of college readiness assessments for College Board. “Submitting a score is optional for every type of college, and we want the SAT to be the best possible option for students.”
So, what does the shift to digital SATs and other assessments mean for educators? It means that using digital resources and learning methods will prepare students for assessments more effectively than ever.
Using Progress learning for Hybrid Learning
Classroom Resources from Progress Learning provide a range of powerful learning tools without the need to be in a traditional classroom setting. Here are some of the ways you can use our powerful features to keep students engaged, even when learning from outside the classroom.
Class Party turns any mobile device or computer into a clicker, letting you quiz your class and either turn the event into a fun competition or letting students answer at their own pace.
Bell Ringers can be used remotely exactly the way they function in the classroom, presenting students with a warm-up they can complete on their own before discussing the problem as a group. You can even ask students to send their answers to you in a private chat so you can see the range of answers your receive.
Complete Performance Tasks as a class, creating the opportunity for an instant mini-lesson.
Display and watch Instructional Videos, then ask students to answer questions via chat or discuss them as a class. These videos serve as perfect lesson supplements, helping develop mastery of core skills and subjects.
Other powerful features include Class Activities, Flash Cards, Puzzles, and Think or Swim activities, which use a Jeopardy-style format that divides students into teams and asks them questions for a fun, engaging competition that’s a favorite of both teachers and students.
All of these features and methods add up to a platform that’s already perfectly equipped to prepare students for the digital SAT, get them ready for other important assessments, and most importantly, prepare them for the next phase of their education journey.
Learn more today by requesting a demo of Progress Learning.
