Some teachers and parents have expressed concerns about the future of NAPLAN testing. Around 235,000 Queensland students have begun three days of literacy and numeracy assessment. For some, it’s the last time they’ll do so, using pencil and paper.

Catherine Butt reports.

TRANSCRIPT

About 10 per cent of schools are set to transition to online testing next year.

That’s raised concerns that some schools and younger students aren’t equipped for the change.

The Queensland Teachers’ Union believes the change creates an equity issue.

Kevin Bates, Queensland Teachers’ Union President: “For our younger students it will be about their ability to engage with the computer in a way which allows them to answer questions. But most importantly for our schools it’s a struggle with having the appropriate technology and access to infrastructure to be able to do the test online.”

Kevin Bates says that while technological transition is necessary for a 21st century education, there isn’t enough investment available to fund the change.

P&Cs Queensland agrees the change is inevitable, but the government needs to be careful how it’s implemented.

Kevan Goodworth, P&Cs Qld CEO: “Provided that it evolves sensibly and that we trial it then it will work.”

Kate Jones, Minister for Education: “I certainly want to make sure that we have good information through the pilot before I invest taxpayers dollars into a broader NAPLAN online.”

From next year students in up to 100 schools across Queensland will take the test online.

Here at Saint Aidens’ Anglican Girls’ School, Principal Karen Spiller says they won’t be taking part in the trial.

She says there’s not enough information available to ensure online testing will accurately test literacy and numeracy.

Catherine Butt, QUT News.