The National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) Policy was introduced in 2008, as a national education policy. Basically, the point of NAPLAN is to have standardised nation-wide testing in Literacy and Numeracy, so that the government can track the academic standard of Australian schools, and identify trends, strengths and weaknesses in in our education system. Seems legit, but why is there such a big fuss about it? Isn’t it just like any other test that happens? How could it possibly affect students and learning? (except because tests suck, am I right?!) Before the testing starts, it’s important to know if these tests are actually worth it, so I’ve made a pros and cons list, comparing the positives and negatives of NAPLAN (also, because I just really like making lists…).
CONS
Teachers report that 90 per cent of students feel stressed before taking the test, including feeling “too dumb” and scared of their parents’ reactions, if they were to receive bad marks.
“There were some teachers who reported that kids do feel sick before the test or freeze during the test. There’s some sleeplessness and some crying.” – Sydney Morning Herald
PROS
“This test does not assess all of what makes each of you exceptional and unique.” – Teacher’s letter to students
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