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Learning From The Advanced Placement Tests

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Published: September 17, 2019

The Advanced Placement (AP) program is a gold standard of intellectual achievement. Students who complete AP classes are more likely to succeed in college and attain an in-depth understanding of a subject. It is not only voluntary and independent from government oversight, but it works within any educational system. Expanding the AP program has become a critical means to equalize opportunity for hundreds of thousands of disadvantaged students.

Discussion Questions

  1. Due to its success, should AP classes be required or remain voluntary?
  2. What makes AP classes successful?

Additional resources

  • Read “Learning in the Fast Lane: The Past, Present, and Future of Advanced Placement” by Chester Finn, Jr. and Andrew E. Scanlan. Available here.
  • Read “The Overheated Reactions to the New AP U.S. History Framework” by Frederick M. Hess & Chester E. Finn Jr., available here. 
  • Read “The Challenges of AP History: Are You Sure You Want College Credit?” by Chester E. Finn Jr., available here.
View Transcript

Every year, three million high-school students, take Advanced Placement (“AP”) exams for college credit.

While many people dislike standardized tests,the AP program stands out as a gold standard of educational attainment.

Successful completion of AP classes and good exam scores strongly correlate with success in college.

This is because AP classes focus on deep understanding, not just recall.

Memorization isn’t enough to master AP’s essay-style exams.

The Advanced Placement program is voluntary, and independent from government oversight.

It works within any school system–public, private, or charter.

It can foster choice, raise standards, create accountability, strengthen curriculum, encourage deeper learning, assist with college entrance and success, and encourage great teaching.

Expanding the AP program has become a critical means to equalize opportunity for hundreds of thousands of disadvantaged students.

Advanced Placement is one of the most successful programs in high schools today.