Benefits of On Demand Testing
The On Demand testing program is a valuable tool for schools, enabling them to conduct assessment in a reliable and standardised manner.
A bank of tests that relate to the Victorian Essential Learning Standards have been constructed by the VCAA and are on offer for schools to download. Once completed, tests are computer marked and a range of reports are available for teachers to immediately view and analyse the results.
To assist teachers with a variety of assessment needs, On Demand tests can be used for:
- pre-testing students prior to beginning a topic
- applying the same test to post-test a topic of work
- testing new intake students or a late arrival
- identifying individual student's strengths and weaknesses
- corroborating teacher judgments
- assisting in forward planning of teaching programs.
Which domains will be covered?
There is a selection of assessments at Standard levels 2-6 in English and Mathematics. The domains covered will expand as the project develops. Computer Adaptive Tests are available in English and Mathematics and for Reading, Writing, Spelling, Number, Space and Measurement, chance and data.
Which Standard levels will be available?
Where practicable, the VCAA intends to provide assessments for Standard levels 2-6.
What about marking and results?
On Demand Testing can save time for teachers by automatically marking tests and delivering results. With the exception of extended response questions, the computer-based system will instantly mark a test and present the results to students.
This immediate feedback can be used to support, encourage and motivate students in their learning programs. An answer sheet is available on the system for teachers who wish to administer print versions of the tests.
Depending on the type of test administered, teachers have the option to display scores to students and view results through a range of available reports. The system has the capacity to store results from a range of assessment tasks, enabling teachers to track and monitor student progress over time.
For instance, the computer adaptive tests can provide teachers with a calculated Standard Score based on the Victorian Essential Learning Standards. Teachers may also draw a number of reports for linear tests that summarise and analyse student results at individual class level and can provide a breakdown of results according to the specific skills being assessed.
See also information about the types of assessment available .
