From a survey of Arizona teachers/administrators and observations in two elementary schools concerning the role of external testing, a typology of teacher orientation toward preparing students to take high-stakes achievement tests is identified. Eight categories of teachers' approaches are contrasted with meanings of test preparation held by other…

The goal of this study was to understand the role that external testing plays in elementary schools. Focus was on uncovering teachers' beliefs about testing and preparing students to take tests, how these beliefs and values are organized, and what implications they might have on practice. To accomplish this, the day-to-day life in classrooms and…

Examines, in a qualitative study, the role of mandated tests on elementary schools, describing in particular their emotional impact on teachers, who may suffer sanctions or loss of autonomy based on low test scores. Describes some of the curricular and methodological effects of standardized testing. (CJS)