The annual NAPLAN assessment has begun, with more than a million students taking the test across Australia.
The data from this year’s NAPLAN assessment is going to important as it is the first test to take place in two years as a result of COVID-19 delaying last year’s test.
This year, 70 per cent of schools will participate in NAPLAN online, in preparation for a full transition to NAPLAN online 2022.
Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) chief executive officer David de Carvalho welcomed the return of NAPLAN.
“As the only national assessment all Australian children undertake, NAPLAN provides rich data that helps inform decisions about improving the learning of all young Australians,” he said.
“It helps us determine whether or not young Australians are developing the literacy and numeracy skills that provide the critical foundation for other learning and their productive and rewarding participation in the community.”
de Carvalho highlighted that no extra preparation was required for NAPLAN and reassured students that there is was need to feel anxious about the assessment.
“It is up to the adults to reassure the children that NAPLAN should be treated as just another routine event on the school calendar and to emphasise that NAPLAN tests what children learn in the classroom every day,” he said.
“In that way, it is similar to any other test or challenge students may face at school – not only academic tests but sporting events, musical performances and other extra-curricular activities. “
With over 70 per cent of school participating in the test online, de Carvalho said the NAPLAN online testing platform has also been enhanced to include low and no-bandwidth solutions, which have been designed to support schools that have limited access to the interest in regional and remote areas.
“ACARA is committed to an inclusive testing process that allows all students to participate in the national assessment program. We have implemented a range of adjustments to support students with diverse learning needs and functional abilities,” de Carvalho said.
“These adjustments enable an equivalent learner experience for students during testing and include magnification, alternative questions, keyboard accessibility, extra time, rest breaks and tailored testing.”
