ICT and Digital Papers

ICT support

We offer ICT support to pupils who require this.  For many the use of ICT can make the exams process a smoother more efficient experience.

Digital question papers

A digital question paper (DQP for short) is a digital version of the question paper that appears on the computer screen and which can be used to have the content read out to a young person.

How does ICT support work?

Pupils who require ICT use to complete an exam would still use a paper copy of the exam to gather info on content and questions.  However, they would then use a computer or laptop to type their answers.

Who is eligible for a digital question paper?

Generally, Digital question papers can be used by candidates identified as having additional support needs who have an approved assessment arrangement.  An example of an additional support need which qualifies for a digital question paper, would be dyslexia.

Who is eligible for ICT Support?

Every candidate is eligible for use of ICT in an SQA exam.

How does an eligible young person obtain support with a digital question paper?

Like other assessment arrangements we use the SQA evidence based approach. Teachers and support staff will monitor and gather evidence for eligible pupils that they believe may benefit from a digital question paper.  This is to ensure a tailored approach for each young person.  

For example, not every young person with dyslexia will require a digital question paper and in some cases it can be detrimental.  Therefore a blanket approach is not the best approach in this circumstance.

How do i know if i require ICT support?

Our candidates usually require IT support if :

How is a young person supported with digital question papers?

We run training sessions and check in with each of our young people who are sitting a digital question paper. If you are unsure about this process please come and speak to the support team direct.

The conditions for allocation of the above forms of support will vary by candidate and is carefully considered on a case by case basis.  This is to ensure that our assessments or National Qualifications are robust, rigorous and fair for all candidates. Please contact Learning Support or Pupil Support if you are unsure if your young person meets the eligibility criteria for any of these supports.