Why did NAPLAN replace AIM tests?
Prior to 2008, States and Territories conducted their own literacy and numeracy tests, often at different times of the year. In Victoria, NAPLAN tests replaced the previous Achievement Improvement Monitor (AIM) English and Mathematics assessment program (and the earlier Learning Assessment Project) which had been in operation since 1996. To establish national consistency in reporting student achievement in literacy and numeracy, the Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs (MCEETYA) in July 2006 determined that national testing for all Australian years 3, 5, 7 and 9 students would commence in 2008. A NAPLAN Project Reference Group (PRG), comprising senior Test Managers from each state and territory as well as representatives from the Catholic and Independent School sectors, is responsible for the development of the NAPLAN tests.
