The parents from your school have heard reports of teachers being dismissed from their positions for taking students’ high stakes tests for them. They are very concerned about these reports and do not understand how they could have happened. They went to the school principal to try to get some answers. Since she knows that you are taking a course in educational psychology she asks you to address the group and try to shed some light – from a psychological point of view – on how teachers could have done these things.

In preparing your answer keep in mind your audience – the parents and teachers of your school. You need to provide facts and references to support them to answer this question. Remember that your answer must be based on psychological theories not stray into politics and certainly not your own experiences or opinions. A good place to address this question should be Kohlberg. You may also use any other theories you feel apply – some might be cognitive dissonance, rationalization, displacement, denial etc.

The basic readings I located on this topic may be found from the links below. You will probably also be able to find other current references to these and other similar instances.

Let me know if you have any questions.

News wrap: dozens of Atlanta educators, former chief indicted for cheating

Atlanta teachers surrender for crimes related to doctoring of test scores

Dozens of Atlanta educators falsified tests, state report confirms (back to 2001)

Allegations of test help by teachers (Long Island)