Rise of Examinations explores the historical development of examinations and standardized testing, revealing how these assessments have become a dominant force in education and society.
The book examines the evolution of testing formats, from ancient oral exams to modern standardized tests, and how tests have shifted from selecting elites to ensuring basic competency.
Delving into educational history, it uncovers the social consequences of relying on tests as gatekeepers, highlighting inherent biases and limitations that challenge the idea of a true meritocracy.
The book progresses chronologically, beginning with the earliest forms of assessment in ancient civilizations and tracing the development of formal testing in Europe and the United States.
It analyzes the influence of key figures in psychometrics and educational psychology, connecting the history of examinations to broader debates about social mobility and the role of education.
A unique aspect of the book is its focus on the social and cultural impact of testing, revealing how examinations have shaped not only educational institutions but also individual identities and aspirations.
