Economist Podcasts The Intelligence: F is for falling standards
13 snips
Mar 18, 2024 The podcast dives into America’s paradox of skyrocketing high school graduation rates paired with declining academic knowledge. It explores how equity-driven policies might compromise educational standards. The conversation also shifts to London’s Canary Wharf, now adapting to a work-from-home culture and transforming into a vibrant urban space. Meanwhile, the cinema industry sees a fascinating shift, as luxury experiences attract audiences despite a general decline in moviegoers. Tune in for insights on education, urban evolution, and the film industry's future!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Declining Academic Standards
- American high school graduation rates have risen to 87%, but standardized test scores like SAT/ACT and NAEP are declining.
- This disconnect suggests schools may be lowering academic standards to inflate graduation rates.
Inflated Graduation Rates
- An Economist analysis of 3,000 high schools across six states revealed increased graduation rates alongside decreased test scores.
- The analysis controlled for key variables, revealing American public high schools inflate graduation rates by ~4% compared to 15 years prior.
Causes of Lowered Standards
- The "No Child Left Behind" Act, while well-intentioned, incentivized schools to prioritize graduation rates over academic rigor.
- Concerns about racial equity have also led to lowered standards, as seen in New Jersey and Oregon's decisions regarding standardized tests.