Divergences between Effects on Test Scores and Effects on Non-Cognitive Skills

Abstract

Students’ abilities are multidimensional; teachers and schools shape students’ cognitive skills, most often captured by test scores, but they also shape students’ non-cognitive skills such as character, tolerance, effort, and conscientiousness. This study reviews the evidence indicating disconnects between test scores and non-cognitive skills from the literature on value-added modeling and private school choice programs. Because several studies reveal disconnects, designers of public and private school policies should consider the potential unintended consequences of shaping teacher and school incentives based on standardized test scores.

Keywords: accountability, economics of education, educational policy, educational reform

JEL Classification: I28, I20