Headteachers have warned that the digitisation of exams cannot be implemented until schools get more investment for more computers are expected to benefit from digital exams, but the sector fears schools will not be ready for the rollout.that on-screen exams will make assessments “more inclusive” due to built-in accessibility features such as screen readers and voice-to-text tools.
Over the summer, Sir Ian Bauckham, chief regulator at Ofqual, told PA news agency that state schools would not be ready for the rollout due to “weak” Wi-Fi systems, connectivity, security issues and underinvestment in the school estate. “Children that require that level of support – who may reject it for that feeling of being different to their peers – may well feel more comfortable within classrooms.”
Katherine Porter, a secondary school teacher who tutors SEND pupils, said digitisation is an “inevitable direction for exams to go in”.. “It’s going to be less of a massive change for students with SEND than it is for other students.”