Now that we’ve come to our census, let’s have a NAPLAN for grown-ups

Australia's population recently demonstrated its capacity for collective participation during the 2026 national census, responding to a range of questions including sexual identity and whether individuals identify as practicing or nominal Jedi. This success has prompted calls for extending such data collection efforts to assess the emotional and social intelligence of adults, suggesting the introduction of an adults-only version of the National Assessment Program, Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). The proposal comes amid growing concern over the state of adult cognitive engagement and interpersonal skills in an increasingly digital society. Critics argue that while attention is focused on improving literacy and numeracy among children, the mental and social capabilities of adults are deteriorating due to excessive screen time and reliance on technology. The idea of an adult NAPLAN has gained traction following the recent census, which saw widespread participation despite the inclusion of unconventional and somewhat intrusive queries. Proponents of the initiative suggest that assessing adult emotional intelligence and social skills could provide valuable insights into societal trends and individual well-being. Sample questions proposed for the adult NAPLAN include evaluating appropriate responses in retail scenarios, handling criticism at work, and managing interactions in everyday situations. These hypothetical assessments aim to gauge how effectively adults navigate social dynamics and manage their emotional responses in various contexts. The suggested tests reflect concerns about modern communication habits, particularly the tendency to engage with technology at the expense of face-to-face interaction. For instance, questions might explore how individuals handle conversations in public spaces, respond to feedback, and manage their attention spans while engaging with digital content. One example involves determining the optimal approach to watching an explanatory video at work, whether to speed through it, watch only a portion, or multitask extensively. Another area of focus would be the impact of digital environments on human behavior, such as how individuals cope with situations devoid of internet connectivity. Proposed scenarios include evaluating responses to a waiting room without Wi-Fi, ranging from attempting to compose a reflective blog post to experiencing an existential crisis. Such questions highlight the potential disconnect between digital engagement and real-world adaptability. The concept also touches on contemporary issues related to online behavior and self-expression. Questions might examine how individuals react to receiving critical feedback, with options ranging from professional reflection to posting angry rants on social media. Additionally, the role of artificial intelligence in shaping human responses is explored, with scenarios involving consulting AI for emotional reassurance or crafting resignation letters. The 2026 census revealed a surprising level of national coordination and willingness to participate in comprehensive data collection. This outcome suggests that Australians are capable of mobilizing for large-scale initiatives, even when faced with complex or unusual requests. The success of the census has thus fueled discussions around expanding similar efforts to other areas of public life, potentially leading to broader assessments of adult capabilities and behaviors. As the debate continues, officials and experts are considering the feasibility of implementing an adult NAPLAN. While the idea remains largely theoretical, it reflects a growing awareness of the need to address the evolving challenges of modern life, particularly in relation to digital dependency and its effects on social and emotional intelligence.