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Does medical students' preference of test format (computer-based vs. paper-based) have an influence on performance?
Achim Hochlehnert1, Konstantin Brass, Andreas Moeltner
1Department of Psychosomatic and General Internal Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Medical Clinic, Heidelberg, Germany. Achim.Hochlehnert@med.uni-heidelberg.de
BMC Medical Education
|October 27, 2011
Summary
Voluntary computer-based exams (CBE) show equal test scores to paper-based exams (PBE). Students had objections to CBE, citing format preferences, but satisfaction was similar across both exam types.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Assessment Methods
Background:
- Computer-based examinations (CBE) offer efficiency over paper-based examinations (PBE).
- Student apprehension regarding CBE performance and format is common.
- Understanding student readiness and acceptance is crucial for effective implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess student readiness and objections to CBE versus PBE.
- Examine acceptance and satisfaction with voluntary CBE.
- Compare examination results between CBE and PBE formats.
Main Methods:
- Fifth-year medical students chose between CBE and PBE formats.
- Questionnaires evaluated format choice reasons and satisfaction.
- Expected and achieved examination scores were recorded.
Main Results:
- 37% of students chose CBE, 63% chose PBE.
- No significant differences in sex, computer experience, scores, or satisfaction between groups.
- Objections to CBE included lack of overview and noise; CBE students found exams clearer.
Conclusions:
- Voluntary computer-based examinations yield comparable test scores to paper-based formats.
- Student acceptance of CBE is influenced by format familiarity and perceived clarity.
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