[Astrokid248]

I think the issue, at least the way I see it, is that standardized tests cause teachers to teach to the tests. So instead of getting a broad education that allows you to decide upon a career, you learn how to answer a specific multiple choice question that you'll never see again. So the measure of aptitude is actually tremendously skewed. While I agree that hands on learning shouldn't replace standardized testing, something needs to replace it. Too often the focus of school is passing tests instead of giving kids the tools they need to become productive, happy members of society (research can be productive, so theory is in included in that). That's what needs to change.