Dr Kenneth Cunningham
1930-1954
Our history
Over 90 years of transforming learning
ACER’s place in Australia’s educational research sector dates back to 1930 when Australia did not have a national educational institution. Since then, ACER has grown from a handful of people into a leading international educational research organisation with nearly 500 staff working in offices around Australia and in Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, London, and New Delhi.
The early years
ACER was developed as a centre devoted to the scientific study of education, a source of reference on educational thought and practice, and a supporter of progressive education.
During World War 2, ACER conducted psychological testing for personnel selection to the Australian Military Forces and government departments. After 1942, we were concerned with the war effort and suspended regular work. Our war time contribution gave us access to government financial support from 1946 and confirmed ACER as a significant national institution.
Post-war years
ACER’s focus widened to a greater emphasis on testing. There was a large growth in library work, we established a semi-autonomous test division; held conferences of test users; conducted research into test theory; held an Australia-wide curriculum survey; university study to determine predictions of academic success; and commenced studies into adolescence and unemployment.
Into the 21st century
ACER has grown rapidly in recent decades. We opened our Sydney office in 2002, followed by offices in Dubai and New Delhi in 2004, Brisbane in 2006, Perth in 2007, Adelaide in 2009, London in 2014, Jakarta in 2015 and Kuala Lumpur in 2018.
Past directors
