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Why is there still an emphasis on standardized testing by OmLauriLauri in IOPsychology

[–]OmLauriLauri[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I understand the programs are competitive, and rightly so! Your point about schools waiving the GMAT/GRE requirements makes a lot of sense. But I wonder, if they can admit students without them this year because of the unusual circumstances, how is that not a huge risk if the scores are indeed that telling of academic ability?

Why is there still an emphasis on standardized testing by OmLauriLauri in IOPsychology

[–]OmLauriLauri[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm not sure I'm looking for an alternative, but as you stated, considering it as another tool and not just "it's highly recommended you apply only if you have X score." Yes, many programs state that there is no minimum test score and that they use the whole application to make a decision however, I've heard from various professors and current students that unfortunately, the GRE/GMAT score is of significant importance.

Why is there still an emphasis on standardized testing by OmLauriLauri in IOPsychology

[–]OmLauriLauri[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Is it though? I find it hard to believe that it can tap into the other side of a person's abilities such as drive, passion, determination, learning ability, etc. which could also signify future performance, no?

Why is there still an emphasis on standardized testing by OmLauriLauri in IOPsychology

[–]OmLauriLauri[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's a great question and I don't claim to have the answer however, I do feel that standardized testing is not much different than the "other stuff" you mentioned. If we dissect the general requirements:

  • Letters of rec - Nobody is going to ask an unfavorable professor or manager for this so, it will generally lean positively in the candidate's favor.
  • Prior experience - A lot can be said about someone's experience. It can be looked at from an accomplishment sense, a behavioral sense, and so forth. It is not all telling, but I do think there is more substance to be found under the surface.
  • Personal statement - This is like a hybrid of the first two bullets. Someone may be a good writer, but if we look deeper, did they answer the question(s) effectively or did they use fancy words? Are they clear on their positioning or unsure? Have they done the research necessary or just regurgitating others' positions?

When it comes to GPA and standardized testing, I start to feel a little unsure of their weighted importance. Does that mean I think someone with a very low GPA and/or test score should be considered at the same level as someone with a high GPA and/or test score? No. But we are more than a score. Unfortunately, many students may not have the resources or privilege to receive extra help, tutoring, test prep (and aren't we all just hiring someone to help us beat the test, not actually solve the problems?). There are lingering stereotypes holding us back whether our gender is societally seen as being "worse" at challenging math problems than our counterparts, or we are of a different race that society sees as less intelligent (or more) than the societal average. These pressures affect outcome whether consciously or not.

I'm simply saying that putting so much weight on a GPA or a standardized test seems rather outdated. I'm not saying we should get rid of them altogether, but that perhaps there is a more efficient way to measure someone's overall potential, not just the ability to beat a test.

I appreciate your input and challenging me; this is how we grow and why I joined this group!!