TERMS OF REFERENCE

Inquiry into Standardised Testing in ACT Schools

The Standing Committee on Education, Employment and Youth Affairs shall consider the following matters:

1. The use of Standardised testing in ACT Schools, including but not limited to:

a. The purpose of standardised testing.

b. The current use of standardised tests including;

i. National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN).

ii. Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

iii. Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS).

iv. Performance Indicators in Primary Schools (PIPS).

v. Any other relevant standardised assessment models.

c. Alternate forms of assessment and reporting (such as A-E reporting).

d. How test results are used to inform teaching on an individual basis and as a cohort.

e. The amount of time devoted to preparing for and conducting these assessments.

f. The impact on student wellbeing and mental health.

g. The effect on teacher morale and professional autonomy.

h. The efficacy of current testing materials.

i. The cost of standardised testing.

2. The ACT’s performance in standardised testing, including but not limited to:

a. The level of achievement of ACT schools compared to similar counterparts nationally and internationally.

b. The long term trend of performance in the ACT.

c. How the ACT Education Directorate uses test data to inform policy and teaching principles.

d. The measurement of learning gains in ACT schools.

e. How standardised testing results inform school enrolment decisions.

3. The Committee will also consider the ACT Auditor General’s report No.4/2017, Performance information in ACT public schools as part of its inquiry.

4. Any other relevant matter.

View committee hearings transcripts

Go to current public hearings schedule

Public Hearings:

11 September 2018 at 9.30am - 11.00am

14 September 2018 at 1:30pm - 3:30pm

24 September 2018 at 2:00pm - 3:30pm

25 September 2018 at 9.30am - 12.30pm

2 October 2018 at 9:30am - 10:30am