<p>I agree with part of what you’re saying, but I wouldn’t call AP classes wasteful test prep programs. </p>
<p>I’ve taken 8 AP classes, passed 6 of them, but the only class where I learned without putting in a tremendous amount of hours self-studying was U.S History. And I can honestly say that even 2 years after I took the AP U.S History exam, I still know so much about this country’s history, it’s amazing. I think that if you have the right teacher, an AP class is a lot more than just taking a class and trying to pass the “end of course” exam. The amount of knowledge you can gain from an AP class that is properly taught is incredible.</p>
<p>The other APs that I’ve self studied- I’ve remembered some of the info, but nothing compared to the amount of information I’ve retained about US History. Sometimes that part of the AP class goes overlooked- the fact that if the class is taught properly, the knowledge that can be gained is invaluable. If someone were to take 6-8 AP classes that were well taught and efficiently run, not only would they have a decent chance at gaining some college credit, but they’d gain so much more knowledge about these subjects.</p>
<p>Sadly, not all APs are run this way -.-</p>