Using InCAS
InCAS has been developed by the Curriculum, Evaluation and Management Centre at Durham University and is a computer-based assessment which is adaptive. This means it focuses on the pupil as an individual, by selecting the initial questions based on the pupil's age and then presenting further questions in response to the pupil's answers.
The difficulty of subsequent items is dependent upon their responses. In this way, pupils are presented with fewer questions that are either too easy or too difficult and so the assessment is appropriate to their ability
These assessments provide teachers with:
- Automatic marking and analysis;
- A variety feedback options;
- Age equivalent scores standardised within Northern Ireland;
- An indication of the strengths and weaknesses of pupils; and
- Insights into which pupils need particular kinds of support.
Use of the InCAS assessments will become statutory in line with the Implementation Timetable.