Concept/Scenario: Does NAPLAN testing contribute to, or hinder student success?

Known or Agreed Upon: NAPLAN tests are good diagnostic forms of assessment NAPLAN tests provide statistical data for a variety of stakeholders NAPLAN tests set benchmarks for student achievement NAPLAN tests introduce students to the concept of testing throughout life drivers licence tests etc. Confusions or Contradictions: NAPLAN tests are barriers for students with learning difficulties/disabilities to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding NAPLAN tests are not suitable for all learning styles and do not allow students to present their creativity or original ideas NAPLAN tests dont allow for differentiation it is simply a matter of pencil and paper an outdated form of assessment Governments are trying to use the results of NAPLAN tests as a reflection on teacher effectiveness/performance Poor performance on NAPLAN tests may result in students suffering lowered self-esteem and negativity towards schooling NAPLAN contributes to heightened stress and anxiety amongst teachers, parents and students NAPLAN does not show considerations towards sociocultural status, socioeconomic status, learning difficulties or disabilities

Resolution: Change the format of NAPLAN testing. Allow teachers to compile portfolios of student work to demonstrate how students have progressed or not and the kinds of activities undertaken to scaffold the learning to get the students to where they are. Stop comparing students to other students; we are all individuals with our own strengths and weaknesses and we have a right to maintain our own standards.