The general education development (GED) exam is getting an upgrade—not only will it double in cost, but the test will switch to a computer-based format, further marginalizing the exact people who take the exam.
The new changes will take effect on Jan. 1, 2014. In addition to the computer-based format, the exam will include testing of computer literacy skills that the test creators say are necessary to be college-ready and prepared for the workplace of the 21st century.
“We truly believe the direction we’re going in is what adults need to compete in the workforce and to get a college degree,” said Armando Diaz, public affairs specialist at GED Testing Service, makers of the GED.
Dr. Michelle Fine, distinguished professor of social psychology, women’s studies and urban education at the CUNY Graduate Center, strongly disagrees.
“GED has been a passport to higher education and to stable employment for marginalized communities,” Fine said. “It’s unclear how we as a society benefit to deny historically marginalized groups one of the few passports to higher education or work… . Why would we deplete the opportunities and elevate the despair of those who have been most marginalized?”
Diaz said that won’t be the case. He indicated that, by switching to a computer-based format, access will improve. Only two computers will be necessary to become an authorized testing center—one for the test taker and one for the administrator. He added that GED Testing Service has done extensive research (available on its website www.GEDtestingservice.com) and conducted focus groups. Most individuals who don’t own computers know someone who does and there are links to free computer skills and digital literacy programs.
