2021 NAPLAN Online coordinator's guide - VCAA
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NAPLAN Online
coordinator's guide
2021
VCAA NAPLAN Helpdesk
VCAA NAPLAN Helpdesk
A helpdesk service operates to assist principals and NAPLAN coordinators with queries about
NAPLAN Online. For queries and/or assistance contact the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment
Authority
A helpdesk(VCAA) on:operates to assist principals and NAPLAN coordinators with queries about
service
NAPLAN Online. For queries and/or assistance contact the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment
Authority (VCAA) on:
Contact details
Contact
Freecall details 1800 648 637
Email
Freecall vcaa.naplan.help@education.vic.gov.au
vcaa.naplan.help@edumail.vic.gov.au
1800 648 637
VCAA website
Email www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
vcaa.naplan.help@edumail.vic.gov.au
NAPLAN Test
VCAA website www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
Administration website www.naplanadmin.vic.edu.au
www.naplanadmin.vic.edu.au
NAPLAN Test
Online National
Administration website www.naplanadmin.vic.edu.au
Assessment Platform www.assessform.edu.au
www.assessform.edu.au
Online National
Assessment Platform www.assessform.edu.au
Dates for NAPLAN Online
Dates
22 March for NAPLAN
– 23 April Online
2021 Practice
School Test Window
Readiness Test (SRT)
25 March 2021 Coordinated Practice
Writing, Reading, Test
Conventions of Language and Numeracy
School Readiness Test (SRT)
11 – 21 May 2021 Writing, Reading, Conventions of Language and Numeracy
Writing, Reading, Conventions of Language and Numeracy
ISBN:978-1-925676-70-9
ISBN 978-1-925867-50-3
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NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
ii
NAPLAN COORDINATOR’S CHECKLIST - YEAR 3, YEAR 5, YEAR 7 AND YEAR 9
NAPLAN ONLINE 2021
DATE CHECK
From The principal will receive the NAPLAN Online grid card package. Contents of this package include
22 February copies of the NAPLAN Online test administration handbook for teachers, NAPLAN Online
coordinator’s guide (this guide), grid cards, Test Materials Security Log and NAPLAN Online
information for parents and carers brochures
Distribute the NAPLAN Online information for parents and carers brochure and communicate the
intended test schedule to parents
Distribute the NAPLAN Online test administration handbook for teachers as soon as possible to
relevant staff
Conduct a training for test administrators, ensuring that they become familiar with the platform
(page 3)
From Review student enrolments (page 15) and register any new students onto the platform (page 22).
15 March Organise students into class groups, if required (page 23)
Schedule and confirm arrangements for the practice test, including Coordinated Practice Test (CPT)
Create test administrator (TA) session logins (page 26). Print the TA session slips (page 29) and
student session slips (page 30) for practice tests and CPT
Principal to login to the platform using the link (sent via email), grid card and school pin.
Principal to invite NAPLAN coordinator(s) to register on the platform
5 March Final date to complete and submit the Technical Readiness Check**
Final date to submit initial school NAPLAN Online test schedule**
25 March Conduct the Coordinated Practice Test (page 4)
22 March – Ensure that test administrators are provided with the TA session slips (page 29) and the student
23 April session slips (page 30) for any practice test sessions including the Coordinated Practice Test (CPT)
Undertake practice tests within this window for students that did not participate in the Coordinated
Practice Test (CPT) and/or did not have the opportunity to familiarise themselves with all online item
types
From 19 April For any students with disability adjustments, ensure that the appropriate Disability Adjustment
Code(s) (DACs) have been entered into the platform (page 19). Ensure that the platform
adjustments will meet student needs
If required, lodge applications for scribes and/or assistive technology**
Discuss parental requests for withdrawals, exemptions and disability adjustments. If required,
generate forms for exempt and withdrawn students and acquire parent/carer signatures**
Print the TA session slips (page 29) and the student session slips (page 30) and place in double
locked secure storage and update the Test Materials Security Log
Ensure that all test materials (including TA session slips and the student session slips) remain in
secure storage until distribution
From 27 April [Year 3 Only] Receive and check contents of the NAPLAN test packages against the packing slip.
[ALL] Receive and secure the NAPLAN Online contingency test package. Note - do not open
unless instructed by the VCAA
Record the name of the staff member who signs for receipt from the courier in the Test Materials
Security Log
Securely store all materials and update the Test Materials Security Log
30 April NAPLAN Online test schedule to be finalised**
4 May Final date to submit applications to use a scribe or assistive technology**
Before the Ensure that there are sufficient back up devices available for the test window, with the current
tests version of the lock down browser (LDB) installed (page 15)
Ensure that procedures are in place so that devices at the school are fully charged before each test
session
Ensure that the checklist (found on the platform), for the ‘Preparing’ phase has been completed
Create TA session logins (page 26). Print the TA session slips (page 29) and student session slips
(page 30) for the tests. Ensure that these are placed in secure storage when not in use
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
iii
From 11 May Start of the NAPLAN Online test window. Conduct the tests according to the submitted school
schedule
On test days Distribute the TA session slips and the student session slips to test administrators on the morning
of each test
Ensure that every test administrator has a device to conduct, manage and monitor the test session,
as well as a copy of the NAPLAN Online test administration handbook for teachers
Where required, ensure that the test administrator has the unlocked browser URL written on a
paper slip for each student with a DAC for assistive technology (AST) and colour contrast
modification (COL)
At the completion of each test session, ensure that all TA session slips, student session slips and
paper slips with the unlocked browser details are returned to you
Ensure that student participation has been updated to indicate if students:
• were absent
• refused to login or logged in and did not complete the test
• abandoned the test due to illness or injury
• have a paused test attempt
• have errors in the spelling of their names
Where required, change student(s) test participation status to ‘postponed’ and finalise the test
session (page 48)
Reschedule student test session(s) where applicable (for example, absence, a paused or postponed
test attempt due to a test disruption)
Ensure that any devices required for further test sessions are fully charged
12 May [Year 5 only] Final date for writing tests for class groups to be concluded
13 May [Year 7 and 9 only] Final date for writing tests for class groups to be concluded
14 May [Year 3 only] Final date for catch-up writing tests by individual students
17 May [Year 3 only] Unless otherwise notified by the VCAA, completed writing test materials need to be
ready for collection by 8.30 am on Monday 17 May. Finalise all exemption and withdrawal forms on
the Test Administration website, if required
21 May End of test window. Final date for tests to be administered
Finalise all test sessions, student participation statuses and complete the platform checklist to
move to the results dashboard (page 53)
Finalise all exemption and withdrawal forms**
From 31 May NAPLAN Online contingency test package will be collected by courier
4 June End of the test security period
** Activity to be undertaken via the Test Administration website
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
iv
CONTENTS
NAPLAN COORDINATOR’S CHECKLIST - YEAR 3, YEAR 5, YEAR 7 AND YEAR 9 NAPLAN ONLINE 2021 iii
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. BEFORE THE TESTS 2
2.1 Test schedule 2
2.2 The locked down browser (LDB) and device checks 3
2.3 Headphones 3
2.4 Training test administrators 3
2.5 Student familiarisation 4
2.6 Activities to be conducted via the platform 5
2.7 Dealing with disruptions 6
3. ON TEST DAYS 9
4. AFTER THE TEST 9
5. AT THE END OF THE TESTING PERIOD 10
6. ONLINE NATIONAL ASSESSMENT PLATFORM 10
6.1 General information about the Online National Assessment Platform 10
6.2 Platform roles 10
6.3 Accessing the platform 11
7. USING THE PLATFORM BEFORE THE TESTS 12
7.1 Principal registration 12
7.2 Invite NAPLAN coordinator 14
7.3 Installing the secure locked down browser 15
7.4 Managing student information 15
7.5 Managing test sessions 26
8. USING THE PLATFORM DURING THE TESTS 34
8.1 Administering the test 34
8.2 Sitting the test – student view 43
8.3 Monitoring the test 47
9. USING THE PLATFORM AFTER THE TESTS 51
9.1 Finalising student participation statuses 51
9.2 Moving to the ‘Results’ dashboard 53
APPENDIX 1: DISABILITY ADJUSTMENT CODES (DACs) 55
APPENDIX 2: REFERENCE FOR RESPONDING TO TEST DISRUPTIONS 57
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
v
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021 vi
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for administering the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) Online in 2021.
The NAPLAN Online tests will be conducted via the Online National Assessment Platform (the ‘Platform’).
It is via this Platform that the test will be administered, test participation will be recorded and student details are
managed.
Students will access the test via a locked down browser (LDB) that will need to be installed on all devices being used for
testing. This LDB prevents students from accessing the internet and other applications during testing, and disables spell
and grammar check functions. Unlike the paper-based tests, students will require headphones for the conventions of
language test. Headphones can optionally be used for the writing and numeracy tests.
Your role in the management and coordination of the tests is critical. This guide provides you with an outline of the key
tasks that need to be undertaken, important information regarding preparing for and conducting the NAPLAN Online
tests, and a complete user guide for the platform. It is important that you familiarise yourself with this guide before
conducting the practice test 22 March to 23 April, the Coordinated Practice Test (CPT) on 25 March and the NAPLAN
Online tests in May 2021.
You will need to use the platform to:
• edit student information
• add new students
• add Disability Adjustment Codes (DACs) to facilitate disability adjustments
• manage class groups
• print test administrator and student session slips
• manage test participation
• finalise test sessions.
Please note that Year 3 students will continue to complete the writing test on paper. The NAPLAN test administration
handbook for teachers – Year 3 writing will be delivered to schools with the Year 3 writing test package in the week
beginning 27 April 2021 and will provide all information required for administering the Year 3 writing test in your school.
In 2021, contingency paper test packages will be delivered to all schools in the week beginning 27 April. Please note
that the contingency test package must be placed in secure storage and not be opened without prior approval from
the VCAA.
This guide should be used in conjunction with the Handbook for principals – NAPLAN Online 2021, which contains a
copy of the National protocols for test administration.
If you have any questions before, during or after the NAPLAN Online tests, seek advice from your principal or the VCAA.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
1
2. BEFORE THE TESTS
The NAPLAN coordinator’s checklist at the beginning of this guide outlines all of the key tasks that need to be
undertaken to administer the tests in your school. The sections below provide more detailed information for preparing to
conduct NAPLAN Online.
Preparation is critical to ensuring the successful delivery of NAPLAN Online. This includes:
• developing and finalising the test schedule (via the Test Administration website)
• the devices to be used for testing (including installation of the LDB)
• briefing test administrators on how to use the platform to conduct the tests
• student familiarisation (using the practice tests, via the platform)
• conducting the Coordinated Practice Test (CPT)
• editing student information and adding new students
• student disability adjustments
• managing student participation
• creating TA session logins and printing TA session slips and student session slips
• planning for possible disruptions.
2.1 Test schedule
Schools are required to provide the VCAA with a schedule for the administration of the NAPLAN Online tests on the Test
Administration website.
This schedule will be useful in assisting schools to plan ahead and determine what is required for delivering NAPLAN
Online (for example, room set up, the number of devices required).
Key considerations for scheduling the tests are:
• Year 3 and Year 5: writing > reading > conventions of language > numeracy
Year 7 and Year 9: reading > writing > conventions of language > numeracy, or;
reading > conventions of language > writing > numeracy (depending on which day you begin
the writing test)
• Writing tests for Year 3 & 5 class groups are to be completed within the first two days of the test window.
Year 7 & 9 to begin on day 2 and finish writing on day 3
• Year 3 students must sit the writing test on Tuesday 11 May. Any individual catch-up tests must be completed
by Friday 14 May (see the NAPLAN test administration handbook for teachers – Year 3 writing for further
information)
When determining the test schedule, consideration should be given to the number of catch-up sessions that will be
provided for students who miss scheduled test days.
Schools are encouraged to use the full test window to maximise participation.
When developing the test schedule, you should allow for additional student devices to be available but not allocated to
students for each test session. It is recommended that there are no fewer than three devices available as contingency.
As of 5 March 2021 your school should have already submitted an initial test schedule.
Schools are asked to ensure their final intended test schedule is entered into the Test Administration website by
Friday 30 April 2021.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
2
If you are unable to schedule all students within the test window and meet the requirements for the writing test, you
must contact the VCAA NAPLAN helpdesk as soon as possible for advice.
The schedule can be printed or exported from the Test Administration website.
2.2 The locked down browser (LDB) and device checks
To prevent students from accessing prohibited tools or browsing the internet, they are required to use a purpose built,
LDB to access the NAPLAN Online tests on their test device.
Schools are responsible for ensuring that students are using devices that are in this locked down mode as it prevents
students from using any other software simultaneously.
When in LDB mode students are prevented from accessing software, switching applications, or using operating
commands such as Ctrl-Alt-Delete. The LDB disables camera, spell and grammar check, screenshot, home and back
button features.
Where schools have a ‘bring your own device’ (BYOD) policy, the NAPLAN coordinator and technical support officer will
need to decide the most effective means for ensuring the LDB is installed on all student devices. ACARA’s policy on the
use of BYOD is available at: https://www.assessform.edu.au/layouts/Technology/Byodevices.aspx
The LDB application (tablets, laptops and desktops) can be accessed from:
https://www.assessform.edu.au/layouts/Technology/LockedDownBrowser.aspx
The device check tool, contained within the LDB allows a device to be confirmed as ready for use in testing.
Further information regarding the LDB and device checks has been provided to your nominated technical support officer.
2.3 Headphones
Students require headphones, earphones or earbuds for the conventions of language test, in order to hear the spelling
items delivered via audio. Students also require headphones if they choose to use the audio player in the numeracy and
writing tests. While their use is optional in these tests, it is highly recommended. The LDB has the functionality to test
each device’s capacity to play sound. Students are not permitted to use headphones for the reading test.
2.4 Training test administrators
For successful administration of the NAPLAN Online tests, it is critical that NAPLAN coordinators brief test
administrators on the administration of the tests and provide access to training. Key functions that will need to be
undertaken by test administrators on the platform include:
• commencing test sessions
• monitoring the progress of tests
• pausing individual students or the whole class (as required)
• adding extra time (as required)
• finalising sessions.
These functions are further outlined from page 34.
The appropriate NAPLAN Online test administration handbook for teachers includes all of the scripts for test
administration (including the practice test), as well as instructions for how to conduct the tests via the platform. The
handbook also includes a Quick Reference Guide, which outlines other functions such as pausing, re-opening tests,
switching a student to another device and submitting a test for a student.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
3
Schools can also make use of the Coordinated Practice Test (CPT) to familiarise test administrators in using the above functions. Please note that the test administrator will require an internet enabled device in each test session to administer the tests via the platform. Minimum device requirements for school based users are available at: https://www.assessform.edu.au/layouts/Technology/Devicerequirements.aspx 2.5 Student familiarisation It is a requirement that students have the opportunity to become familiar with the question types contained in the NAPLAN Online tests. From Monday 22 March to Friday 23 April, 2 practice tests will be available via the platform for students to experience the NAPLAN Online environment and familiarise themselves with the different types of questions. These practice tests are not designed to cover all learning areas in the NAPLAN Online tests. One of the tests is an omnibus test that comprises of reading, conventions of language and numeracy questions and runs for approximately 45 minutes. The other test is a writing test that runs for approximately 42 minutes. The practice test window provides teachers with the opportunity to become familiar with the test administrator dashboard and associated functions. NAPLAN coordinators will need to create TA session logins, print TA session slips and student sessions slips prior to practice test sessions. Refer to 7.5 Managing test sessions (page 26) for detailed instructions. The LDB must be installed on student devices prior to conducting the practice test. It is important that all students undertake the practice test on the platform so there is a record they have completed familiarisation. Schools should undertake practice test sessions from Monday 22 March to Friday 23 April 2021. For further student familiarisation, ACARA provides a public demonstration website. The site consists of mini-tests covering all domains for each NAPLAN year level – conventions of language (grammar, punctuation, spelling), numeracy, reading and writing. The demonstration site can be found at: http://www.nap.edu.au/online-assessment/public-demonstration-site Please note that the demonstration site can also be accessed via the LDB. Coordinated Practice Test There will be a Coordinated Practice Test (CPT) where all NAPLAN Online schools are required to hold a practice test session at the same time (morning of 25 March 2021 as close to 11.30 am AEST as possible). All schools are asked to conduct the CPT using similar student numbers that are expected for the first session of NAPLAN Online 2021 testing. NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021 4
2.6 Activities to be conducted via the platform
Editing student details and adding new students
Student data has been preloaded onto the platform by the VCAA. However, student details may need amending. Please
see page 17 for further information on how to edit student details on the platform.
New students may have commenced at the school following collection of student data by the VCAA or your sector
authority. These new students will need to be added to the platform prior to conducting the tests. See page 22 for
further details.
Additionally, student details may need to be amended after test sessions (for example, student name spelt incorrectly).
Student disability adjustments
For students with a disability, Disability Adjustment Codes (DACs) can be entered into the platform against the student,
so that the adjustments are automatically applied during the test session. All NAPLAN Online items are now keyboard
accessible.
Further information on keyboard accessibility can be found at:
http://www.nap.edu.au/online-assessment/accessibility/keyboard-accessibility.
The disability adjustment codes are entered by the NAPLAN coordinator. Test administrators do not have the ability to
access or adjust these codes.
See Appendix 1: Disability Adjustment Codes (DACs) on page 55 for a table of DACs.
Please note that where the disability adjustment requires a rest break, test administrators will need to ‘pause’ the
student’s test attempt. This will pause the student’s timer so that they do not lose any time. A reason will need to be
entered for pausing the test (‘disability adjustment’) and the test attempt ‘resumed’ once the rest break is completed.
Please see page 37 for further information about how to complete these functions on the platform.
Students with a disability are permitted to use a physical calculator (where required to access the test) for the second
part of the numeracy test. For these students, you will need to inform the test administrator prior to the start of the test
session and ensure the calculator is supplied only once the student has commenced the calculator section of the test.
For these students, no DAC is required to be entered onto the platform.
Where a student requires assistive technology (AST) or colour contrast modification (COL), they will need to access
the test via an unlocked browser, not the LDB. Following the submission and approval of an application to use assistive
technology via the Test Administration website:
1. You must assign the relevant DACs for the approved student onto the platform
2. The approval email for the student from the Test Administration website will contain the URL for the unlocked
browser
3. You will need to supply this URL to test administrators on the day of the test session
4. Student should only access the URL in a private or incognito window within the unlocked browser.
Please note for students who are sitting the alternative test formats (for example, large print, braille) on paper, you
will need to mark them as ‘‘Alternative Format’ (AF) on the platform. All alternative test formats, including unused test
papers, must be returned to VCAA.
If you are unsure whether the platform will meet student disability requirements, you should contact the VCAA.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
5Student exemptions and withdrawals Personalised forms for recording student exemptions and withdrawals will be available for printing via the Test Administration website. These forms will be available for printing from the commencement of Term 2. Instructions on how to complete the forms are available on the Test Administration website once you have logged in. Once a form has been signed and returned to schools, this should be recorded on the Test Administration website. The signed forms must be kept at the school for at least 12 months and made available to the VCAA upon request. You will need to update student participation status (exempt or withdrawn) on the platform as required. Student participation status should only be changed to exempt or withdrawn on the platform if parents have agreed and signed the personalised forms. The national protocols (page 8 of the Handbook for principals – NAPLAN Online) outline the eligibility of exemption. Please note that students who are exempt or withdrawn from the tests cannot sit the NAPLAN Online tests. Students who have already completed the online tests cannot be changed to exempt or withdrawn. The decision to exempt or withdraw students must be made prior to the commencement of the student’s test session. Alternative arrangements will need to be made for exempt or withdrawn students during testing sessions. Further information about exempt and withdrawn students can be found on page 48 of the Handbook for principals – NAPLAN Online. Managing class groups If provided by your school, the VCAA will have pre-loaded your student class group information onto the platform. If you want to adjust your class groups, or move students from one class group to another, this will need to be done via the platform prior to the tests. See page 23 for further details. Creating TA session logins For each test session, you will need to create a unique TA session login for test administrators for each test session to be able to login to the platform. See page 26 for further details. Printing TA session slips and student session slips In order to administer test sessions, test administrators will require a TA Session Slip (which contains the unique TA session username and password), so that the test administrator can login to the platform to commence and manage a test session. Each student will require a student session slip, which contains the student code for them to access the test. You will need to print these ahead of the tests and keep them in secure, double locked storage. Please note that student session slips can be printed in a variety of formats. For information on how to create TA session logins and print TA session slips and student session slips, see pages 26 to 30. 2.7 Dealing with disruptions Disruptions can occur during test sessions - these may be general disruptions (for example, fire alarm) or technical disruptions (for example, loss of internet connection). Preparation before the tests is the best approach to minimise the chance of disruptions occurring. Planning your response to the most common issues will minimise their impact on the test session. NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021 6
For each test session it is recommended that a number of backup devices are on standby that students can be
transferred to in the event that their primary device fails.
The test administrator is responsible for dealing with test disruptions as they arise within the test session. However,
there may be occasions where you or the principal are required to take steps in response to a test disruption or escalate
an issue to the VCAA.
Instructions for test administrators
• If interruptions occur, test administrators should ‘pause’ individual students or the entire test session. Once the
interruption is addressed, test sessions can be resumed. Pausing a student’s test attempt will stop the student’s
timer so that they do not lose any time. Examples include:
º a student’s device ‘freezing’ and becoming unresponsive. The student’s test should be paused while the device
is reset or they are switched to another device.
º a fire alarm going off and the entire group having to temporarily leave the test session. The entire test session
should be paused during the disruption.
• If the test administrator is unable to pause the test session during a disruption, additional time can be added
to extend the session to compensate for time lost. A student’s test attempt can only be paused if the student’s test
attempt time has not expired (i.e., the student’s timer has not reached zero). Examples include:
º If power is lost/disrupted during the test, time will need to be added to allow for the period the test session
was disrupted.
º If a student has been experiencing a technical issue, which you were not immediately aware of.
Additional time for the period the student was disrupted (and not paused) is required to be added.
Details on how to ‘pause’, ‘resume’ and ‘postpone’ individual students (page 37) or the whole test session (page 38) and
‘adding extra time’ (page 40) can be found in this guide.
Where there are technical issues that impact on a minority of the students in the test session, test administrators should
not try to resolve the issue. Where a student device freezes, or becomes unresponsive the student’s test attempt should
be ‘paused’ in the first instance. If appropriate, it is recommended that the device is reset and the student attempts
to join the test session again (with the test then ‘resumed’). If this does not immediately resolve the issue, or further
problems are encountered, the student should be promptly switched to a backup device.
Where a test session has been paused, the system will present a text box where the test administrator can enter
relevant details about the disruption. The test administrator must also provide details of the test disruption to the
NAPLAN coordinator at the end of the test session.
If the test disruption is such that the system cannot be paused, test administrators must note the time at which the
disruption begins and its duration, as students’ timers may not automatically freeze and extra time may need to be
added to the test session once it is resumed.
If there is a legitimate reason for allowing a student to continue working on the test after their time has expired – for
instance, if a test disruption was such that the system was unable to be paused and/or the student’s timer reached
zero during the disruption – the test administrator may use the ‘Reopen student’ function to reopen the student’s test
attempt and add extra time to it. If extra time is added, test administrators must indicate the reason for the addition of
extra time in the drop down list presented by the system.
If the issue is not resolved within 15 minutes, the student(s) may resume their test attempt at a later time. For
this to happen, the affected students’ test attempt status must be changed to ‘postponed’. In these cases, the test
administrator will need to ‘pause’ the student and escalate the issue to you or the principal for action.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
7You should ensure that test administrators notify you immediately if the test session has been or is likely to be disrupted and they cannot resolve the issue. Individual students or whole test session should be rescheduled if an issue cannot be resolved within 15 minutes. Please note that if there are any students who are ‘Paused’, test administrators will not be able to finalise the test session. Only the NAPLAN coordinator or the principal will be able to finalise the test session. Where students are unable to complete their test due to technical issues, NAPLAN coordinators are required to postpone students’ tests and reschedule to allow completion of the test(s). Refer to Appendix 2: Reference for Responding to Test Disruptions on page 57 for an overview. Please notify the VCAA if there is a technical disruption that has impacted on an entire class or the whole school. You do not need to contact the VCAA if individual students have experienced issues and need to be rescheduled. An exception to this is if a test administrator informs you a student experienced technical issues during a test and should have be given additional time but they finalised the test session. In these circumstances as you will be unable to postpone and reschedule the test, please contact the VCAA immediately for advice. In the unlikely event of a system wide issue preventing the administration of the tests, the VCAA will notify both the principal and the NAPLAN coordinator, notifying them of the issue, as well as notification once the issue has resolved. Contingency test package The NAPLAN paper test package will be delivered to schools as a contingency measure. Delivery of the NAPLAN test packages will commence on Tuesday 27 April 2021. Please note that test packages must be securely stored as soon as they are received. The contingency test package must not be opened unless directed to by the VCAA in the event where an ongoing technical disruption cannot be resolved in the testing window. Do not revert to using the paper test in the event that you experience technical issue(s) during the NAPLAN Online test administration without the approval from the VCAA. If you believe you are unable to resolve the technical issue within the testing window, please contact the VCAA NAPLAN Helpdesk to discuss your option. Unused contingency test packages will be collected by courier from 8:30am on Monday 31 May 2021. If the contingency test package has not been collected by Friday 4 June 2021, please contact the VCAA NAPLAN helpdesk. NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021 8
3. ON TEST DAYS
Prior to commencing the tests, ensure that test administrators have the following to conduct the tests:
• a device to administer the test session, ensuring that it is internet enabled and the LDB installed to confirm it is
configured correctly
• confirmation of the devices that students are using to sit the test and that the LDB is installed on each device
• the TA session slip for the test session
• student session slips for all students participating in the test session
• a printed list of students allocated to the test session, including details of which students, if any, have been
allocated disability adjustments
• a NAPLAN Online test administration handbook for teachers
• chalk or white board marker, or a projector for displaying the test administrator screen to the class
• notepad and pen.
If there are students that are using assistive technology, ensure that you provide the test administrator with the URL to
utilise in the unlocked browser.
Ensure that test administrators allow enough time before the start of each test session for students to start their devices
and open the LDB.
Please note that the NAPLAN Online test administration handbook for teachers outlines which student materials will be
needed for each test.
Certain NAPLAN Online tests allow or require the use of headphones.
4. AFTER THE TEST
After each test, ensure that the test administrator and/or NAPLAN coordinator complete the following:
• recharges school-supplied devices for the next test session
• collects all planning pages and student session slips
• collects any slips containing the unsecured browser URL
• collects and stores any school headphones
• update student participation (for example, setting a student to absent, finalising a test attempt)
• records test disruptions or incidents; paused test attempts; errors in the spelling of student names
• returns the TA session slip, student session slips, planning pages and any other test materials to you
• postpone any students (page 48) who were unable to complete the test session due to technical issues
• finalise any outstanding test sessions
• notify the VCAA as soon as possible of any students whose status needs to be changed to ‘Sanctioned
Abandonment’
• generate reports to review test progress (page 50).
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
95. AT THE END OF THE TESTING PERIOD
At the end of the testing period, all student participation statuses must be updated and accurate on the platform (see
page 51).
All test sessions must be finalised and the Delivery Checklist on the platform completed (to enable you to move to the
Results phase).
All TA session slips and student session slips should be securely destroyed at the end of the test security period.
6. ONLINE NATIONAL ASSESSMENT PLATFORM
6.1 General information about the Online National Assessment Platform
NAPLAN Online is delivered to schools via the Online National Assessment Platform (the platform). It is via this Platform
that you will administer the tests, as well as completing many of the tasks associated with conducting the tests (for
example, managing student information and disability adjustments).
The platform will facilitate schools to complete all tasks related to the NAPLAN Online tests. These tasks are similar to
the current activities/processes that need to be completed for the NAPLAN paper tests.
6.2 Platform roles
There are five roles on the platform:
• principal – the principal of the school, who is accountable for administration. This account has the highest level of
access within the school and can perform the majority of tasks necessary for the preparation and delivery of tests
• NAPLAN coordinator – the NAPLAN coordinator is accountable for administration. This account can perform all of
the tasks necessary for the preparation and delivery of tests, as delegated by the principal
• technical support officer – the technical support officer is responsible for checking and preparing all school devices
• test administrator – the test administrator is an authorised user who administers a test and supervises a group of
students within a test session
• student – the student accesses the test via the platform.
These roles are set up to provide different levels of access and are assigned to specific staff. The login details for these
accounts, once created, may only be used by the person to whom the role is assigned.
Not all schools will require all roles. Some schools will have multiple NAPLAN coordinators, while others may only have
one. In some small schools, the principal may perform all tasks.
A person may only be assigned to one of these three roles (principal, NAPLAN coordinator or technical support officer)
within the online assessment platform for a school. If a person will be undertaking tasks allocated to multiple roles, they
should be assigned the role with the highest permission level. For instance, if a NAPLAN coordinator will be performing
all the technical readiness tasks for a school, they do not need to register again in the Online Assessment Platform as a
school technical support officer because the NAPLAN coordinator role already has permission to complete these tasks.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
10Figure 6.1
Only principals and NAPLAN coordinators can see all data (including student information) for their school on the platform.
Technical support officers cannot see student or test information.
Test administrators can only see details of the students who participate in the test sessions that they supervise.
6.3 Accessing the platform
The platform can be accessed via www.assessform.edu.au. For NAPLAN Online 2021, click on the ‘NAPLAN 2021’ login
icon. For the training environment, click on the ‘NAPLAN Training Environment’ login icon.
Figure 6.2
The principal and NAPLAN coordinator both require a username, password and a NAP secure login card (referred to as a
grid card) to log in to the platform. They also require the school PIN when they register to the platform for the first time.
The technical support officer requires a username and password only.
Test administrator logins are not assigned to a specific person and are required for administering test sessions. These
logins are created by the principal or NAPLAN coordinator.
Students access the platform in a different way. They require an appropriate device with the LDB installed and a set of
headphones. See section 7.3: Installing the secure locked down browser (page 15) for further information. In addition,
they will require a test session code (provided by the test administrator at the start of the test session) and a student
code (printed on the student session slips generated by the platform and provided by the test administrator) to access
the test.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
117. USING THE PLATFORM BEFORE THE TESTS
7.1 Principal registration
The principal will require the following to register to the platform:
• From the 22 February, an invitation email that is sent from the platform
• a pre-assigned school PIN provided by the VCAA on the grid card package cover letter
• NAP secure login cards (referred to as grid cards) provided in the grid card package. The grid cards are required as an
additional authentication for principal and NAPLAN coordinator accounts on the platform.
Principal accounts are created via a self-registration link that is emailed to the nominated principal’s email account. In
order to create a principal account on the platform, principals are required to click the self-register link in the invitation
email.
12 NAPLAN Online Coordinator Guide: Training 2018
Figure 7.1
For the initial registration process, the platform will request entry of the school PIN.
For the initial registration process, the Platform will request entry of the school PIN.
Figure 8.3
Figure 7.2
It will then ask for the codes on the grid card to confirm your registration. Please note that each grid card is
unique; the codes on each grid card are different.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
12Figure
Figure 8.3
8.3
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Figure 8.5
The grid card is now linked to your account – you will need the codes on this grid card for any subsequent login.
The grid card is now linked to your account – you will need this grid card for all further logins.
Note: Principal invitation emails contain a one time self-register link that will become void once clicked. If for any reason
you click this link and fail to register, you will need to request for a new link to be sent. This can be done by going to the
platform (admin.assessform.edu.au) and clicking ‘Forgot your password?’. This process can also be used in cases where
an individual has forgotten their platform password.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
13NAPLAN Online Coordinator Guide: Training 2018 13
NAPLAN Online Coordinator Guide: Training 2018 13
Below is a view of what you will see when you login to the platform.
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Figure 7.5
In order to move from one dashboard to another, schools
Figure 8.6 are required to complete and tick off all the
To move from one dashboard to another, schools are required to completenote
tasks in the ‘Checklist’ tile on the left of each dashboard. Please and these
tick offtasks
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8.2 Invite NAPLAN coordinator
7.2 8.2
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Invite
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NAPLAN coordinator
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dashboard.
Figure 8.7
Figure 8.7
Figure 7.6
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
14The NAPLAN coordinator will receive an invitation email that contains a self-register link. Follow the registration process
similar to that previously outlined for the principal (including the use of the codes from their grid card and the school PIN
for the initial registration). Once registered, the NAPLAN coordinator can perform the same functions as the principal,
excluding inviting another NAPLAN coordinator.
Please note that each grid card is unique; the codes on each grid card are different. Each NAPLAN coordinator user
account will need their own unique grid card. If your school requires additional grid cards, please contact the VCAA
NAPLAN helpdesk.
7.3 Installing the secure locked down browser
In order to prevent students from accessing prohibited tools or browsing the internet, devices will be locked down to
access only the NAPLAN Online tests. A secure LDB has been developed for various operating systems and tablet
devices for this purpose. A full list of minimum hardware requirements for all supported devices can be found here:
www.assessform.edu.au/layouts/Technology/Devicerequirements.aspx
It is required that schools ensure that students are using devices that are in locked-down mode, as it will prevent
students from using any other software simultaneously. When in locked-down mode, students are prevented from
accessing other internet browsers, accessing software, application switching and other operating commands. Features
such as the camera, spell check, screenshot, home and back buttons will be disabled.
The technical support officer should ensure the LDB is installed on all student devices prior to the test. Links to all
versions of the LDB and instructions on how to install them can be found on this link:
www.assessform.edu.au/layouts/Technology/LockedDownBrowser.aspx
This is a link that can be assessed by the general public and, if required, the link can be given to students so they can
install the LDB on their own devices.
Where students have been granted permission from the VCAA to use another browser or software due to their disability
requirement, students will not be sitting the test via the LDB. However, the appropriate DACs must be assigned to
the student so the platform will allow them to sit the test via other browsers. Please refer to Appendix 1: Disability
Adjustment Codes for further information on DACs.
7.4 Managing student information
Following the collection of student enrolment data at the end of February, the VCAA have loaded all 2021 NAPLAN
student data onto the platform. Schools can check all the existing student information and add any new students as
required.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
158.4 Managing student information
For the SRT, the VCAA has loaded all 2018 NAPLAN pen-and-paper student data into the Platform. Schools
can check all the existing student information and add any new students as required.
Check student information
Check student information
Schools can review the current students already registered on the platform by clicking on ‘Manage student information’
Schools can review the current students already registered on the Platform by clicking on ‘Manage student
under the ‘Manage Students’ tile on the ‘Preparing’ dashboard.
information’ under the ‘Manage Students’ tile on the ‘Preparing’ dashboard.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator Guide: Training 2018 15
Figure 8.8
Figure 7.7
The page will display all students who are already loaded for the school. You can filter the list by year level and/or class
TheClick
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Figure 7.8
Figure 8.9
Search for individual students
Search for individual students
Individual students can be searched for by clicking the ‘Search for Names, Email or Username’ button to open the search
Individual students can be searched for by clicking the ‘Search for Names, Email or Username’ button to
filter boxes.
open the search filter boxes.
Figure 8.10
Figure 7.9
Enter the name of the student in the ‘Search for Names, Email or Username’ box and click the ‘Search’ button.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
16Figure 8.10
Figure 8.10
Enter the name of the student in the ‘Search for Names, Email or Username’ box and click the ‘Search’ button.
Enter the name of the student in the ‘Search for Names, Email or Username’ box and click the ‘Search’ button.
Enter the name of the student in the ‘Search for Names, Email or Username’ box and click the ‘Search’ button.
Figure 8.11
Figure 7.10
Figure 8.11
The system will display students that match the search criteria.
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system will display
will display students
students that match
that match the search
the search criteria.criteria.
16 NAPLAN Online Coordinator Guide: Training 2018
Figure 8.12
Figure 8.12
Figure 7.11
Edit student information
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Figure 8.13
Figure 7.12
Click on the ‘Save Student’ button after you have edited the student’s information.
NAPLAN Online Coordinator’s Guide 2021
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