What does "standards based" refer to in education?

"Standards based" in education refers to a framework where curriculum, instruction, and assessments are aligned with specific learning standards. In the context of Hawaii, this means that education is structured around the Hawaii Content and Performance Standards (HCPS III), which set clear expectations for student learning across various subjects. By aligning the curriculum to these standards, educators ensure that students are receiving a quality education that meets established benchmarks for knowledge and skills.

This approach helps to create consistency in what students are expected to learn and is crucial for assessing student progress and outcomes. Standards based education promotes accountability for both students and teachers, as it provides a clear set of objectives to aim for and measure against. This alignment also fosters a more focused and coherent educational experience that aids in preparing students for future academic challenges.