The new form of standardized testing for Indiana will be implemented this week. Replacing the previous test known as ISTEP, ILEARN will now serve as the statewide standardized test for students in elementary, middle and high school. The test is taken on a computer rather than using a number-2 pencil and a testing booklet like many exams of the past.

The test uses computer adaptive software in order to make the test more understandable for students taking it. The software itself is designed to adapt the exam to each student’s mastery of the content throughout the test. Each time a student answers a question, the software takes their response and helps determine what the next question will be.

Experts say the test will adjust to each student’s skill set, which many believe will provide a better measure of what that student knows. The test also has no time limit so students can take as much time as they need to finish the exam.