Why the College Board Failed to Adapt the SAT and Advanced Placement Tests Safely in the Pandemic

The global pandemic presented unprecedented challenges in virtually every aspect of life, including education. The College Board, responsible for the SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) tests, faced significant hurdles in adapting these examinations to the new reality. This article explores why the College Board struggled to implement safe and effective measures to continue these crucial tests during the health crisis.

The Challenges of Testing in a Pandemic

One of the main issues for the College Board was the reliance on traditional testing locations. These centers are scattered across the country, each with unique characteristics and capacities. While some test centers accommodated only a handful of students, others could host hundreds simultaneously. Given the varied nature of these facilities, it was challenging to standardize and safely adjust the testing process.

What Was the Situation Like During the Pandemic?

The first AP tests were held under altered circumstances, but even then, the Internet was allowed for some exams. This decision aimed to level the playing field for students, but it also introduced complications. For instance, some students might have had better Internet access than others, potentially giving them an unfair advantage.

In terms of the SAT, there had been existing efforts to reduce its importance or even eliminate standardized testing. The pandemic further accelerated these discussions. However, in the absence of a clear and safe testing framework, the College Board's priority was to ensure the integrity of the exam rather than the convenience of the process.

Why at-Home Tests Were Not Acceptable

The idea of administering at-home SAT and AP tests was considered but ultimately rejected. This decision was driven by several factors, including the inherent limitations of home testing environments, which can be less secure and less controlled compared to traditional testing centers. Additionally, at-home testing would not have provided the same standardized experience, potentially undermining the validity of the test results.

Operational Constraints and Local Regulations

The College Board's operational structure further complicated matters. They rely on local schools and other facilities to administer the tests. If these facilities were closed due to local regulations or health concerns, the College Board had no alternative. Closing test centers was a pragmatic decision given the rapidly evolving nature of the pandemic and the confusing, sometimes contradictory guidelines issued by state and local authorities.

Furthermore, the College Board had to consider the role of proctors who administer the tests and the secure handling and transportation of test materials. Ensuring the integrity of these processes in a remote, decentralized environment would have been extremely challenging and would likely have compromised the security and reliability of the tests.

The Impact on Universities and Students

Colleges and universities, relying on the SAT and AP scores for admissions, responded by either canceling or adjusting their application processes for the year. This created a level playing field for students, as many schools implemented similar policies to avoid favoring or disadvantaging any particular group of applicants. The decision to cancel or postpone testing was a necessary measure to protect the health and safety of students and staff, and to maintain the credibility of the test scores.

In conclusion, the College Board's inability to adapt the SAT and AP tests to the pandemic was a complex issue involving logistical and operational challenges, as well as the rapidly changing landscape of public health directives. The decision to cancel or postpone testing was a balanced approach to maintaining the integrity of the tests while prioritizing public safety.