JCQ changes make it even easier to receive reading support
Scanning Pens has been the spearhead of dyslexia support in exams for several years now, and this was reflected by the ExamReader receiving the no Exam Access Arrangement (EAA) status from JCQ back in 2015. It’s proven to be a remarkable alternative to a human reader that has provided tens of thousands of students with the confidence to reach their potential.
We’ve received endless feedback about the benefits schools have experienced from using the ExamReader, including this quote from Boldon School who have used the ExamReader for two years now: “Our Learning Support Assistants (LSA’s) do not need to be taken ‘off timetable’ and away from students they usually support for the assessments, students can use the ExamReader instead. Exam Access Arrangements do not need to be applied, so students can gain independence and ownership of their own learning.”
As time has gone on, schools have discovered just how beneficial assistive technology can be for a student’s outcomes and lifelong learning opportunities. The success of scanning pens being used in exams in recent years has shown how a wider group of students can get the support they need without the necessity of going through the formal accommodation process. We believe this has helped pave the way for JCQ to simplify Exam Access Arrangements. This also means less bureaucracy for the test centre, but most importantly, the playing field is being levelled for a wider group of people.
The new JCQ legislation stated the use of the computer reader and/or reader must reflect a student’s normal and current way of working within the centre. It also went onto say: “For candidates with learning difficulties assessment evidence, Form 8 is no longer required."
As a proven aid to reluctant readers, the ExamReader paved the way for this announcement by regularly proving the benefits of appropriate support. Scanning Pens has been breaking down barriers around dyslexia since our inception and to be at the front of such an important development in assistive technology is everything that we could have hoped for.
Jack Churchill, CEO of Scanning Pens, commented: “It is absolutely essential that young people are able to pass their exams without being held back by a difficulty decoding exam questions. For too long, too many exam candidates have not received results equal to their understanding. This change in accommodation is a fantastic move by the JCQ and goes a step closer to creating equity in the exam system. As a result of developments like this, the UK is once again at the forefront of breaking down barriers for struggling readers.”
This change doesn’t just affect students with dyslexia, it’s applicable to all those with learning difficulties, including those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Speech, language and Communication Needs (SLCN).
To see the full legislation from JCQ, view their website here: http://www.jcq.org.uk/exams-office/access-arrangements-and-special-consideration/regulations-and-guidance/access-arrangements-and-reasonable-adjustments-2019-20
For more information on the ExamReader, and to request a FREE 30 day trial, please visit: www.examreader.com