Online testing is big step forward

Tennessee’s public schools this school year are using technology to make a major leap in how students take state tests.

Students will now take tests on a computer, sending paper and pencil the way of rotary phones, cassette players and record albums.

In this time when most young children and teens are computer savvy, we can only hope that struggling schools will see an uptick in achievement test scores, especially in reading.

Last week, the state released a picture of where schools are in terms of having computers and adequate bandwidth in place to allow students to take the tests online. The self-survey of districts showed more than 99 percent of the schools — 1,691 out of 1,701 — reported their networks were test ready. Last year, just over 88 percent reported adequate bandwidth. About 90 percent of schools reported having enough devices to give the test online.

Shelby County Schools officials said the necessary devices are scheduled to arrive in mid-October. The county’s municipal school districts also are in good shape.

The new tests are a big step not only for students, but also for the state Department of Education. Education Commissioner Candice McQueen said the state is ready to deal with any glitches. That is good to know because there will be hiccups.

Overall, though, having the students take the tests via computer is the 21st century thing to do.