Problems around the compulsory math test in mbo underestimated.

Problems around the compulsory math test in mbo underestimated.

Thousands of mbo students with serious math problems risk not getting their diploma this and coming years because of the mandatory math test. Several education and parent organizations have united behind the petition calling to adjust the agreements around the test. Also JOBmbo. The student organization warns in an interview with Ouders & Onderwijs that the effects of the mandatory test are underestimated.

Vocational testing

“We think anyway that an exception should be possible for this specific group of students with serious math problems, like dyscalculia. But as far as we are concerned, the math test in general is not needed,” say Roeland Diepenbroek and Rosa van de Velde from JOBmbo. “If you study to become a furniture maker, you learn in practice and in specific lessons what math skills you need for your job. That knowledge can be tested in those specific subjects. There is no need for a general mandatory math test that tests everyone the same way. We understand that the minister needs to pay attention to basic skills, and we agree with that. But it cannot be that mbo should fix the math problems that started because of poor education. While students at hbo with dyscalculia do not face this. And if you did get your havo and want to move on to mbo, you still may not get an mbo diploma because of the math test. That is absolutely not okay.”

Problem underestimated

“At the complaint line of JOBmbo, we have received more complaints in recent months about math education and worries about not passing the test. Also parents of students in vmbo year 3 who worry about the math test at their next school. That worries start this early, instead of focusing on a fun choice of study, is concerning for us. The problem is really bigger than people think now.”

Focus on the individual

“The minister has now said in his letter that research will be done about how big the group with this problem is,” says Van de Velde. “He expects results only at the end of this year. That means there is already a group with results that come too late for them.” “Besides, no matter how big the group is, it is important to consider the individual,” adds Diepenbroek. “Even if it is one person, we should be able to make an exception.”

Vmbo needs a change

“Right now, you are still under compulsory education if you come from vmbo. So you have no choice but to go study at mbo. Ideally, vmbo would last one year longer and you would get good basic skills training there. And after your vmbo, you would meet the start qualification requirement, just like after havo and vwo.

Now you are under compulsory education after vmbo, you cannot get an mbo diploma if you fail the math test, and you have to wait until you are no longer under compulsory education. After that, you could leave school without a diploma. But that is of course not the goal.”

On April 16, Ouders & Onderwijs, Parent Association Balans, and the petition initiators will officially deliver the signatures to the Tweede Kamer.