Is standardised testing pushing Indigenous culture out of the classroom?

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2021-09-24 03:00

Australia; QLD

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A narrow focus on teaching Australian children skills for later participating in the economy is not leaving room for Indigenous culture, according to Australian research. The researchers argue a focus on standardised testing, and policies that use measurements of numeracy and English literacy skills to divide students into those who are 'performing' and 'underperforming' means interventions to improve outocomes for Indigenous students focus more on those who are 'underperforming' with little focus on Indigenous culture and using culture to engage more with Indigenous children. They say while the language in education policy appears to be shifting to reflect the need for cultural engagement, substantial change is needed.