Along with the SAT, the ACT is a standardized college admissions test with a long history. Introduced in 1959, this venerable exam has gone through many changes over the years. From the introduction of the Reading section in 1989 to the addition of the Writing section in 2005, to the advent of school day testing in 2017, the ACT has weathered many changes to help it be a better tool for selective schools to identify strong candidates. Now, the ACT is about to undergo another change: online testing.
The addition of offering a digital option comes with a suite of new changes. These changes are designed to streamline the testing process, enhance accessibility, and improve the overall testing experience. As educators, students, and parents prepare for these updates, it’s essential to understand what these changes entail and how they will impact the test-taking journey.
Why the Change?
The addition of a digital format for the ACT comes as a response to the evolving educational landscape. With technology becoming increasingly integral to everyday life, it’s only natural that standardized tests adapt accordingly. The transition to digital testing aims to reflect the current learning environments and provide a more efficient, secure, and adaptable testing experience.
ACT CEO Janet Godwin emphasized that these enhancements are driven by feedback from educators, students, and parents who have long advocated for a more modernized testing approach. The goal is to offer a testing experience that mirrors the technological advancements in education while maintaining the test’s integrity and reliability.
When Will the Digital ACT Be Available?
The digital ACT was first introduced in February 2024 at select locations, with additional testing centers rolling out the option. The digital ACT must be taken at a designated testing location and is not available as a remote option; you cannot take it at home or with your own devices.
Key Changes to the Digital ACT
The changes to the ACT are multifaceted, encompassing various aspects of the test. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant updates. It’s important to remember that the digital option is just that: an option. The traditional paper test will remain available, and students will be able to choose the test format that works best for them.
Online Testing Option
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of an online testing option. Students will now have the choice to take the ACT either on a computer or using the traditional paper-and-pencil method. This flexibility aims to accommodate different learning styles and preferences, ensuring that all students can perform at their best.
Shortened Test Duration
The digital ACT will feature a shorter test duration compared to the traditional version. This change is intended to reduce test fatigue and improve focus and performance. The new format will be more concise, allowing students to complete the test in a shorter time frame without compromising the assessment’s rigor and comprehensiveness.
Adaptive Testing
The digital ACT will incorporate adaptive testing technology. This means that the difficulty of the test will adjust based on the student’s performance. For example, if a student answers a question correctly, the subsequent question may be slightly more challenging. Conversely, if a student struggles with a question, the next one might be easier. This approach aims to provide a more personalized testing experience that accurately reflects each student’s abilities.
Enhanced Security Measures
Digital testing allows for more robust security measures, minimizing the risk of cheating and test fraud. Features like randomized question order and digital proctoring will ensure that each student receives a unique test experience, enhancing the test’s fairness and integrity.
Immediate Score Reporting
One of the most exciting changes for students is the introduction of immediate score reporting. With the digital ACT, students will receive their scores much faster than with the traditional paper-based test. This quick turnaround will enable students to make more informed decisions about their college applications and test retake strategies.
What’s Staying the Same?
Despite the exciting changes to the ACT, many core elements remain consistent. The ACT will continue to reflect the high school curriculum, assessing the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired throughout your education, making it a relevant and accurate measure of academic preparedness.
Additionally, the ACT remains a valuable tool for college admissions, helping institutions determine whether or not a student can meet the college’s standards. High scores on the ACT will still open doors to numerous scholarship opportunities, enhancing eligibility for various merit-based scholarships.
Preparing for the Digital ACT
With broader access to these changes on the horizon, it’s important for students to start preparing for the digital ACT. Here are some strategies to help navigate this new testing landscape:
Familiarize Yourself with the Digital Format
One of the first steps in preparing for the digital ACT is to become comfortable with the online testing interface. Many students are already accustomed to digital learning environments, but it’s essential to understand the specific features and tools available during the test. Taking practice tests in a digital format can help students acclimate to the new testing environment and reduce anxiety on test day.
Develop Strong Typing Skills
Given that the digital ACT will require students to type their responses, particularly for the essay section, having proficient keyboard typing skills is important. Students should practice typing essays under timed conditions to improve their speed and accuracy. There are numerous online resources and typing programs that can help students enhance their typing abilities.
Enhance Time Management Skills
The shortened duration of the digital ACT means that time management will be more critical than ever. Students should practice pacing themselves during practice tests to ensure they can complete each section within the allotted time. Developing a time management strategy, such as allocating specific time blocks for each question or passage, can help students maximize their performance.
Take Advantage of Adaptive Testing
The adaptive nature of the digital ACT can work to a student’s advantage if approached strategically. Students should focus on answering each question to the best of their ability, knowing that the test will adjust to their performance level. It’s essential to stay calm and not get discouraged by challenging questions, as the adaptive format is designed to tailor the test to each student’s strengths and weaknesses.
Use Online Test Prep Resources
Preparing for an online exam is a little different than preparing for a paper exam, so students should work with their test prep tutors to go over these differences. They should take advantage of resources like practice tests and interactive exercises tailored to the new digital format. Utilizing these tools can provide valuable insights and strategies for tackling the test effectively.
The Benefits of the Digital ACT
The transition to a digital ACT format brings several benefits that can positively impact students’ testing experiences and outcomes.
Increased Accessibility
The digital ACT is designed to be more accessible to a broader range of students. The online format can accommodate various learning styles and needs, including students with disabilities who may require assistive technology. Additionally, the ability to take the test at various locations can reduce barriers related to travel and scheduling.
Enhanced Test Experience
The digital format offers a more engaging and interactive test experience. Features like interactive graphs, drag-and-drop questions, and digital highlighting tools can make the test more intuitive and user-friendly. This enhanced experience can help students stay focused and engaged throughout the test.
Immediate Feedback
One of the most significant advantages of the digital ACT is the immediate feedback students receive. The quicker turnaround time for score reporting allows students to make timely decisions about their college applications and future test-taking strategies. This prompt feedback can reduce the stress and uncertainty associated with waiting for test results.
Challenges and Considerations
While the digital ACT offers many benefits, there are also some challenges and considerations to keep in mind. Students should consider these fully before choosing which version of the test to take.
Technical Issues
As with any digital platform, there is the potential for technical issues, such as connectivity problems or computer malfunctions. It’s essential for testing centers to have contingency plans in place to address these issues promptly. Students should also ensure they are familiar with the technical requirements and have access to reliable equipment and internet connections.
Adjustment Period
Transitioning to a digital format may require an adjustment period for some students and educators. It’s important to allow time for students to become comfortable with the new format and for educators to adapt their teaching and test preparation strategies accordingly. Providing ample resources and support during this transition can help ease the adjustment process.
Equity Concerns
There are concerns about equity and access to technology. Not all students and school districts have equal access to computers and high-speed internet, which could create disparities in test preparation and performance. Addressing these equity issues is crucial to ensure that all students have a fair opportunity to succeed on the digital ACT. The ACT has released technology requirements, so students and educators alike can understand what the test needs.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Standardized Testing
The move to a digital ACT is part of a broader trend towards modernization in standardized testing. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations in how tests are administered and how data is used to support student learning and development. This shift represents an exciting opportunity to create a more responsive and inclusive education system.
Online Test-Taking Strategies and Prep Expert Services
As students prepare for the digital ACT, developing effective online test-taking strategies will be crucial. Prep Expert offers comprehensive ACT preparation services designed to help students excel on the digital ACT. With expert instructors, personalized study plans, and a wealth of online resources, Prep Expert can help your student navigate the new digital testing landscape with confidence. Check out Prep Expert’s list of ACT offerings to learn more about how we can support your student’s journey to success on the digital ACT.
