5 JUN 2023
Exam board look at ‘Duolingo-style’ test for GCSE re-sitters
The largest exam board in England, AQA, is considering the possibility of introducing an on-screen, on-demand test similar to the language learning app Duolingo to help students who repeatedly fail GCSE maths and English.
The aim is to provide a numeracy and literacy assessment that would support students who do not achieve a grade 4 in both subjects, which is necessary for apprenticeships and employment. This proposal comes in response to calls from the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) for a "passport" in maths and English, a test that can be taken between the ages of 15 and 19 when the student is ready. ASCL's recommendation was part of their inquiry to address the "forgotten third" and put an end to the GCSE resit industry. In 2019, before the pandemic, only 30% of students aged 17 or older achieved a grade 4 or above in English, and 21% in maths.
AQA is currently in the early stages of consultation with school and college leaders, as well as employers, regarding this potential assessment. Ed Reza Schwitzer, AQA's head of external affairs, likened the proposed assessment to Duolingo's English proficiency assessment, which is recognised by 4,000 universities worldwide. The idea is that a high-quality assessment from an on-demand, on-screen provider could demonstrate a student's numeracy skills and be sufficient for them to pursue apprenticeships. However, the ASCL's assessment specialist, Tom Middlehurst, expressed a preference for a new qualification instead of solely relying on an assessment. Dr Michelle Meadows, a former deputy regulator at Ofqual, acknowledged the potential benefits of AQA's plan but emphasised the importance of investing in effective teaching and learning programs to support students who struggle with maths and literacy. Kate Shoesmith from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation welcomed any initiative that helps unlock students' potential, particularly for those who find exams stressful.