Final answer:
Standardized tests have been criticized for bias towards certain groups, often disadvantaging those with less exposure to the cultural knowledge being tested. True representation requires norming tests on a diverse population. The National Center for Fair & Open Testing aims to address and resolve these biases in educational evaluations.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that one concern of standardized tests is that they may be biased towards certain groups. Conflict theorists argue that IQ tests and other standardized assessments tend to be biased because they may test cultural knowledge rather than actual intelligence. This can disadvantage those from less affluent backgrounds who may not have the same level of exposure to the tested cultural knowledge.
For a test to be fair and accurately assess students' abilities, it would need to be normed on a representative sample that reflects the diversity of the population. However, standardized tests have historically faced criticism for failing to address the needs of all students, including those with learning disabilities and those from varied cultural backgrounds.The National Center for Fair & Open Testing (FairTest) works towards ending the observed bias and flaws in standardized testing, advocating for evaluations that are equitable for students, teachers, and educational institutions.