Algorithmic Illusion and Examining Cultures. Two Paradigmatic Cases: The EBAU and the MIR exam

Authors

  • Mariano Martín Gordillo UNIOVI
  • Ángela Martín Carranza UNIOVI

Keywords:

STS, EBAU, MIR exam, algorithmic illusion, meritocracy

Abstract

From a science-technology-society (STS) perspective, this paper analyzes the role of mathematical algorithms in two tests that receive great media attention in Spain: the Baccalaureate Assessment for University Access (EBAU, due to its initials in Spanish) and the test for access to specialized health training positions, better known as the MIR exam. Both tests share the purpose of ordering the results of the thousands of applicants who take part in them. However, there are significant errors and inaccuracies in both of them that contrast sharply with the illusion of algorithmic precision that they intend to give to the general public. Finally, some more general critical reflections on exams and their relationship with the algorithmic illusion are pointed out.

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Author Biographies

Mariano Martín Gordillo, UNIOVI

Professor of philosophy in secondary education and associate professor in the Department of Education Sciences of the University of Oviedo (UNIOVI), Spain.

Ángela Martín Carranza, UNIOVI

Graduated in mathematics and physics from the University of Oviedo (UNIOVI), Spain.

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Published

2022-11-25

How to Cite

Martín Gordillo, M., & Martín Carranza, Ángela. (2022). Algorithmic Illusion and Examining Cultures. Two Paradigmatic Cases: The EBAU and the MIR exam. Revista Iberoamericana De Ciencia, Tecnología Y Sociedad - CTS (Ibero-American Science, Technology and Society Journal), 17(51), 307–331. Retrieved from https://ojs.revistacts.net/index.php/CTS/article/view/331

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 51 (2022)

Section

Dossier

License

Copyright (c) 2022 CC Attribution 4.0

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