Should Texas use the new GED?

In 2014, the GED high school equivalency test went through significant changes. Now administered by Pearson, the British education company that manages most standardized tests, the new GED is said to be more challenging, expensive, and is computerized versus in paper format. This has caused a bit of controversy in the education landscape of Texas.

Some states have abandoned the new GED for other high school equivalency measures. Currently, the Texas State Board of Education is considering other alternatives and is expected to make a decision in 2016.

I believe that the changes to the GED are justified and that Texas should use the new test as its high school equivalency exam. According to the GED Testing Service, the updates to the exam were necessary in order to align with employer expectations and the new Common Core high school standards. The GED had not been changed in more than 10 years prior to the release of the 2014 changes. High school academics have certainly changed over the course of 10 years. The GED needed to be current to keep up with employer and societal expectations.

“The 2014 GED® program ensures that an adult’s high school equivalency credential signifies he or she has the skills and knowledge necessary to take the next critical steps in their life,” says the GED Testing Service’s website. They state that the knowledge one needs to pass the test is the same that they need to pass present-day high school.

If the point of the GED is to ensure an individual is at a high school level so that they're successful in the workforce, I absolutely believe these changes are justified. In addition to the difficulty level, there is also controversy about it now being computerized since this poses a whole new challenge to low-income individuals who may not be tech savvy. My thoughts on this: if one were to complete high school, they definitely would have basic knowledge of using a computer. Knowing the basics of using a computer is a part of staying current in the modern workforce, regardless of the field one is in.

While I do understand the new challenges that test takers and literacy programs will face, it’s crucial that we are educating people and setting them up for success long-term. More preparation and improving basic knowledge of computers can only help, not hinder, long-term success in the workforce.