HOW WE SEE IT

State Adjusts To Changes In GED Tests

Alot of people don’t like to be tested. Tests, after all, can be daunting because so much rides on getting it right.

That can be even more so for someone who hasn’t taken a test in years, like someone admirably trying to obtain his general equivalency diploma, more commonly known as a GED. Obtaining that worthwhile document got a little harder for 2014.

The state test to obtain the equivalent of a highschool diploma has traditionally been administered in paper form, with test-takers using pencils to fi ll in their answers. In more recent years, they had the option of taking the test on computers, but as 2013 ended, so did the practice of giving those in pursuit of a GED the option. It’s all on computer now.

Along with that change comes higher potential costs, although the state recently said it had not determined yet just how much would be passed on to the student. Until now, the GED testing has been free. It would certainly be a shame for cost to become a factor that prevents anyone from pursuing their diploma.

Some folks understandably might not be entirely comfortable taking tests on computers, and the state needs to monitor the impact this change has on testing results. But, given the technological age in which we live, any high school graduate needs to have the skills necessary to interact via computer.

It has become a necessity of life for anyone seeking to advance themselves. And isn’t that what getting a GED is about?

We hope this transition goes smoothly. We’ve seen a major example on the federal level lately that demonstrates how technology can be as much a hindrance as a help. Adult educators appear to be prepping wisely to help their charges navigate these more intense tests, including the teaching of keyboarding skills.

We also hope the computerization of the test doesn’t discourage anyone from seeking out adult education classes that can prepare them for earning a GED. Obtaining a complete high school education is a critical first step toward a better life. We commend everyone who has marked the achievement and those in 2014 who will finally say “yes” to that ever-present urge to finish what they started, perhaps even years ago.

It might be even more of a challenge now, but the accomplishment will be all the more impressive when it’s completed.

CASUALTIES OF WAR

To honor the men and women in our armed forces and remind our readers of their sacrifices, this newspaper is publishing Department of Defense announcements identifying Americans killed in active military operations.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Forrest W. Robertson, 35, of Westmoreland, Kan., diedNov. 3, in Pul-E-Alam, Afghanistan, of wounds suft ered when enemy forces attacked his unit with small-arms fi re.

He was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Army Staff Sgt. Richard L. Vazquez, 28, of Seguin, Texas, died Nov. 13, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds suft ered when his unit was attacked with an improvised explosive device while on dismounted patrol in Panjwai, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

Army Staff Sgt. Alex A. Viola, 29, of Keller, Texas, died Nov. 17, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds suft ered when his unit was attacked with an improvised explosive device while on dismounted patrol. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

Opinion, Pages 5 on 01/08/2014

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