Chalkbeat Ideas
Coverage of Chalkbeat Ideas in the Nexus archive.
- Why digital tests are helping keep Chromebooks in classrooms
Digital standardized testing is keeping Chromebooks in classrooms as educators prioritize preparing students for computer-based assessments despite some backlash against screen time. Examples include Los Angeles and Baltimore maintaining devices for third graders due to testing requirements, while critics argue assessment should not solely drive tech use in education.
- Non-college career pathways have a math problem
The article discusses the debate over non-college career pathways, highlighting that while some high-paying jobs like construction trades exist without a four-year degree, most non-degree occupations offer lower wages. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows jobs such as plumbers and machinists provide middle-class salaries, but roles like home health aides, the largest non-college job, have median pay below the national average.
- The rhetoric and reality of ‘returning education to the states’
The Trump administration's efforts to 'return education to the states' have been described as limited and contradictory, with state leaders noting minimal changes in control. Indiana and Rhode Island education officials highlighted existing state authority and increased federal interference under the administration.
- Girls’ test scores have fallen faster than boys’. No one knows exactly why.
Girls' test scores in math and reading have declined more sharply than boys' in recent federal exams, with boys showing greater recovery. This gender gap persists despite no consensus on its causes, though hypotheses include pandemic-related disruptions like caregiving responsibilities and loss of school structures.
- For generations, more schooling meant better jobs. Could generative AI upend that bargain?
The article explores how generative AI might disrupt the historical link between education and economic advancement. For over a century, technological shifts created demand for more education, but AI could instead replace skilled workers, challenging the 'race between education and technology' paradigm. The text highlights uncertainty about AI's economic impact and references historical expansions in schooling to prepare for technological changes.
- Virtual event: Has the Trump administration returned education to the states?
Chalkbeat Ideas hosts a virtual event on June 11 to discuss the Trump administration's education policies, including efforts to reduce federal oversight and transfer programs to the Department of Labor. Panelists include state education leaders from Rhode Island and Indiana, who will address impacts on schools, federal program cuts, testing, and civil rights enforcement.
- Tom Kane has tracked years of U.S. test scores. Here’s what he’s learned — and still can’t explain.
Tom Kane, a Harvard University professor, analyzed U.S. test scores and found declining student achievement since 2013, particularly in reading, with partial recovery in math but not reaching pre-2013 levels. His research highlights theories like reduced test-based accountability and increased social media use but lacks definitive answers, while middle-income districts show the most reading score declines.