THOSE #@*&# AP/IB PROGRAMS!!!!!! THE WINDING BANISTER REVIEW WANTS TO HEAR ABOUT THEM FROM YOU

In Issue 5 of The Winding Banister Review, scheduled to appear in May, we will feature an article about AP and IB programs. But this essay is just one writer’s opinion. We want to know what YOU think, and now’s your chance to weigh in on these educational programs that are increasingly coming under harsh scrutiny.

In a recent Atlantic Monthly article (http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2012/10/ap-classes-are-a-scam/263456) the AP program was slammed because it stifles intellectual inquiry while making outrageous revenue from its mandatory exams. Do you agree, disagree? We want to hear from you.

Below is one student’s thoughts on the AP program:

“In my experience, high school students take AP classes to receive college credit, to impress college admissions officers, and to be intellectually challenged and engaged…However, for me, AP courses attempt to cover too much in too little time, forcing teachers to jog through the material with no time for detours. I saw this especially in contrast to my International Baccalaureate courses…If students reject AP…they risk getting left behind in the horse race that is college admissions…"

We want your feedback, so write to us (try to keep to 200 words or less). Please send your comments to the WBR at this email:  ahart93@terpmail.umd.edu