Digital Skills for Online Testing: Part 4

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This post is investigates the digital skills required for the Conventions of Language NAPLAN test. After review the Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 NAPLAN tests the skills seem similar for each test.

Computer skills required include:

  • keyboard skills
  • trackpad or mouse skills
    • selecting objects
    • symbols used to indicate a selection
    • click and drag
    • use of highlight
    Symbols on the full screen
  • understanding of symbols on the screen
    • next and back buttons
    • flag tool
    • play button
    • dictation tool
    • volume tool
    • magnifying glass
    • hide and show the timer
    • reading a count down timer
  • understanding of the function of types of questions and tools
    • drop down boxes
    • radio buttons
    • click and drag
    • check boxes
    • typed answers in a box
    • use of highlight in questions
Drop down list

Click and drag question


To complete Conventions of Language test students should be familiar with the tools and question types used in the test.

At the conclusion of the test students should understand the meaning of the branching screen. Students who are not familiar may need assistance if they click "Yes I want to start the next section" they will be locked out of the section they have just completed.

Branching Screen

They should be confident using the dictation tool and volume and the symbols and functions of the screen.

They should also be competent using a computer, trackpad or mouse and skills mentioned above. While a teacher can assist with these skills it reduces cognitive load if a student is digitally capable and allows them to focus on the content of the course.












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