SACRAMENTO, Calif. - The State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson is calling for a major change in the way California school kids are tested.

He is recommending that the standardized math and English tests called Star Tests be replaced with computerized assessments.

Torlakson says they will require students to think critically, solve problems, and show a greater depth of knowledge.

The tests could be given more frequently and would provide quicker results to teachers.

The exams would be used beginning next year as the state begins to phase in use of National Curriculum Standards known as the Common Core State Standards.

Torlakson's recommendations were made in a report to the Governor and the state legislature.