System Would Cost Millions

South Carolina needs to buy about 33,000 computers and spend about $58 million to convert its annual high-stakes testing from pencil and paper to keyboard and monitor, a report found.

The report, which looked at what would be needed to switch the tests to computers, was presented to the state Education Board this week.

The report found roughly 30 percent of school computers would need an upgrade, and purchasing 32,500 computers would mean about one computer for every four students – the ratio needed for the switch.

Teachers and parents have complained about how long it takes to receive the results from standardized tests such as the Palmetto Achievement Challenge Test, which is taken in the spring with results released in the fall. Computerized tests, they say, would provide more immediate results.

State Education Superintendent Jim Rex, who wants to end the PACT in favor of interim tests to gauge progress throughout the year, called the $58 million cost a “conservative” estimate.

“I thought it would have a high price tag because we are far from where we need to be,” Mr. Rex said. “Keeping up with technology requires an ongoing commitment.”

Many educators support the switch.

Mike Turner, Berkeley County’s assistant superintendent for learning services, said the computers should be a priority.

“Computerized tests are far and away a superior mode of assessment,” Mr. Turner said. “The payoff would not be only for the testing program but for the entire instructional program.”

Mr. Rex said task forces will look closely at the report this summer before education officials decide what to do.

State Rep. Bob Walker, the chairman of House Education and Public Works committee, will hold public hearings on Mr. Rex’s plan to change state tests.

Mr. Walker said a computerized system would have to be phased in rather than spending $58 million at once.

The report was done by Data Recognition Corp., which partners with state education departments to develop and administer assessment programs, according to the company’s Web site.

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