“The Test & The Art of Thinking” (2017) is a documentary that explores the culture and impact of standardized testing in the U.S., particularly focusing on the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test). Directed by Michael Arlen Davis, the film delves into the history, purpose, and controversies surrounding the SAT, questioning whether it truly measures a student’s intelligence or potential for success.

Key themes explored in the documentary include:

1. The Origins and Purpose of the SAT: The documentary discusses how the SAT was originally intended to level the playing field for students of diverse backgrounds. It was designed to provide a common measure of aptitude, but over time, it has evolved into a high-stakes test with significant implications for students’ futures.
2. Critique of Test Prep: The film critiques the growing industry of test preparation, arguing that it contributes to inequality by giving affluent students, who can afford expensive tutors and prep courses, a significant advantage. This undermines the idea that the SAT is a fair assessment of merit.
3. Questioning Validity: Experts, educators, and students interviewed in the documentary question the test’s ability to measure true intellectual potential or predict long-term success. They argue that the SAT primarily assesses test-taking skills rather than critical thinking or creativity.
4. The Impact on Education: The documentary also touches on how standardized tests like the SAT shape high school education, often narrowing curricula to “teach to the test” and pressuring students into a one-size-fits-all approach to learning.

Overall, “The Test & The Art of Thinking” offers a critical look at standardized testing and challenges the role it plays in American education. It questions whether these tests serve the interests of students and society, or simply perpetuate socioeconomic inequalities.