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Equivalency of computer-based and paper-and-pencil testing.
1Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Health Related Professions, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock 72205, USA. deangelissusanl@exchange.uams.edu
Journal of Allied Health
|October 12, 2000
Summary
Computer-based exams show comparable or improved student performance versus paper tests. While student acceptance varies, computer testing offers benefits like faster scoring and detailed item analysis.
Area of Science:
- Health Professions Education
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Assessing the equivalence of computer-based versus paper-based examinations is crucial for educational technology adoption.
- Student perceptions and attitudes toward computer-based testing can influence acceptance and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the score equivalence between computer- and paper-based dental hygiene examinations.
- To assess senior dental hygiene students' attitudes toward and perceptions of computer-based testing.
Main Methods:
- Thirty senior dental hygiene students participated in a crossover design, completing both computer- and paper-based exams.
- Student performance data and survey responses on computer-based testing experiences were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Students performed equally well or better on computer-based exams compared to paper-based exams, with a significant increase for the first exam (p < 0.05).
- Student acceptance of computer-based testing was mixed, potentially influenced by prior experience with the format.
Conclusions:
- Computer-based examinations are equivalent or superior to paper-based formats in terms of student performance.
- Computer-based testing offers administrative advantages, including reduced scoring time and enhanced item analysis capabilities.