Monash experts lead the charge in strengthening VCE maths exams
Professor Warwick Tucker
Mathematicians from Monash University are at the forefront of enhancing the quality and rigour of Victoria’s VCE mathematics examinations through a new partnership with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).
This collaboration, the first of its kind, will see Monash University academics not only reviewing the 2024 VCE maths exams but also taking a key role in writing the exams starting in 2025.
Professor Warwick Tucker, Head of the School of Mathematics at Monash University, emphasised the significance of this partnership:
“Our partnership with the VCAA marks a significant milestone in advancing the quality of mathematics education in Victoria,” Professor Tucker said.
“By integrating the expertise of our mathematicians into the examination development and review processes, we aim to ensure that VCE Mathematics assessments are not only rigorous but also fair and reflective of the curriculum’s objectives.
“This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to fostering excellence in mathematics education and providing students with the best possible opportunities to showcase their understanding.”
Professor Burkard Polster
Professor Burkard Polster, a leading mathematics lecturer at Monash, echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of the collaboration:
“The participation of Monash mathematicians in the quality assurance process for the VCE Mathematics examinations is an important and welcomed development,” Professor Polster said.
“This collaborative effort between Monash University and the VCAA reflects a shared dedication to delivering high-quality assessments.
“Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that students have the opportunity to demonstrate their mathematical proficiency in a fair and supportive environment.”
This partnership stems from recommendations made earlier this year in an independent review led by Dr John Bennett AM, which called for the inclusion of more suitably qualified academics on VCE Mathematics examination development panels and improved examination review processes. The VCAA has implemented or is in the process of implementing all of these recommendations.
The Victorian Minister for Education Ben Carroll highlighted the importance of this initiative for students.
“VCE can be a stressful time and students and families rightly expect high quality exams that give the best opportunity for a fair assessment on skills attained throughout the year,” the Minister said.
“Boosting the numbers of suitably qualified, senior mathematics specialists to oversee the development and review processes of VCE maths exams was a key recommendation of Dr John Bennett’s independent review.”
The collaboration between Monash University and the VCAA marks a new chapter in the quality assurance of mathematics assessments in Victoria, ensuring that the exams meet the highest standards and provide students with the opportunity to succeed.
For further information about the VCAA’s exam improvements, visit:
Pages - VCE Examination Improvement
Listen to Professor Tucker’s, interview with ABC Radio about how his team intends to make the exam process smoother for students.
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