Research Projects

The Information Computer and Information Literacy Study (ICILS) is a large-scale assessment designed to inform policy and practice by providing an international perspective on computer literacy. The international studies are conducted by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) to examine the outcomes of student computer and information literacy education across countries. Information is available on the international website:http://icils.acer.edu.au

ICILS assessment measures international differences in computer information literacy and computer use in Grade 8. In Australia ICILS focuses on: computer information literacy between and within countries; aspects of school and education systems that are related to student achievement in computer information literacy; and student background factors related to achievement such as levels of access to ICT, proficiency, socioeconomic status and gender. An additional module in Australia will allow linkage of the ICILS assessment to the National Assessment Program: Information and Communications Technology so that NAP:ICT results can be benchmarked against the international results.

ACER is the Australian National Project Manager for ICILS.  The project is supported by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, State and Territory education departments and a National Advisory Committee. The main study assessment in 2013 includes background questionnaires to students, teachers and principals in selected sample schools.

On a national level, the Australian ICILS team at ACER is responsible for managing and ensuring the successful implementation of ICILS in Australia. This includes:
• liaising with schools
• overseeing national data collection
• reporting to all Australian stakeholders
• in-depth analysis of data
• reporting on educational issues relevant to Australia
• producing national reports with a focus on Australia’s standing in an international context