HC Deb 04 May 2004 vol 420 c1423W
Mr. Simmonds

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what discussions his Department has had with the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority regarding electronic on-screen assessment. [168968]

Mr. Stephen Twigg

The effective use of electronic on-screen assessment will have an important role to play in supporting learners in schools and colleges in the future. Both Ministers and officials in this Department have discussed with the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority ways in which electronic assessment can be introduced, while maintaining standards; ensuring access for all learners; and guaranteeing high security levels. The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority is developing more detailed plans for electronic on-screen assessment, and we look forward to further discussions with it as we seek to promote greater use of such techniques in the learning process.