Advanced Placement
Overview
Advanced Placement (AP) is a program in the United States and Canada created by the College Board, which offers college-level curricula and examinations to high school students. American colleges and universities may grant placement and course credit to students who obtain high scores on the examinations. The AP curriculum for each of the various subjects is created for the College Board by a panel of experts and college-level educators in that field of study. For a high school course to have the AP designation, the course must be audited by the College Board to ascertain that it satisfies the AP curriculum.
History
The Advanced Placement program was initiated in the 1950s as a response to the perceived gap between secondary school education and college-level work. The Ford Foundation funded a study that led to the creation of the AP program, which was designed to provide motivated high school students with the opportunity to engage in rigorous academic work. The first AP exams were administered in 1956.
Structure and Content
The AP program offers courses across a wide range of subjects, including sciences, mathematics, languages, social sciences, and the arts. Each AP course is designed to be equivalent to a first-year college course in that subject. The curriculum is developed by a committee of college faculty and experienced AP teachers who ensure that the course content reflects current scholarship and practices in the discipline.
Course Auditing
For a high school course to be designated as AP, it must undergo a rigorous auditing process by the College Board. This process involves submitting a syllabus that demonstrates the course meets the AP standards. The audit ensures that the course covers the necessary content and skills, and that the teacher has the appropriate qualifications.
Examinations
AP exams are typically administered in May and consist of multiple-choice questions and free-response sections. The exams are scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest possible score. A score of 3 or higher is generally considered passing and may qualify students for college credit or advanced placement in college courses.
Benefits and Criticisms
Benefits
The AP program offers several benefits to high school students, including the opportunity to earn college credit, stand out in the college admissions process, and develop college-level academic skills. Students who succeed in AP courses and exams often find that they are better prepared for the rigors of college coursework.
Criticisms
Despite its benefits, the AP program has faced several criticisms. Some educators argue that the program places too much emphasis on standardized testing and may not adequately accommodate diverse learning styles. Others contend that the pressure to perform well on AP exams can lead to student stress and burnout.
Impact on College Admissions
AP courses and exams play a significant role in the college admissions process. Many colleges and universities view successful completion of AP courses as an indicator of a student's ability to handle challenging academic work. High scores on AP exams can also enhance a student's application by demonstrating mastery of college-level material.
International Presence
While the AP program is most prevalent in the United States and Canada, it has also gained popularity in other countries. International schools and students can participate in the AP program, and many universities around the world recognize AP exam scores for college credit and placement.
Future of Advanced Placement
The AP program continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to update and improve the curriculum and exams. The College Board regularly reviews and revises AP courses to ensure they reflect current academic standards and practices. Additionally, there are initiatives to expand access to AP courses for underrepresented and disadvantaged students.