"American students at all levels have become specialists at memorization. Cramming the night before a test has become the norm rather than the slow, methodical approach that yields more lasting results. If students know they have to take a standardized test at the end of the year, they have added incentive to focus on really learning the material rather than just learning enough to get a good grade in their class. Since they will face future standardized exams, it will open their minds to different study techniques that ensure the knowledge will stick. Not every student is going to change their approach, but any additional source of motivation is beneficial."