Testing by Computer

The computer has become a major technology in testing. A great deal of research is being done on the computer and testing. Ironically, although most testing presently uses computers to administer classical tests, the vast majority of the research is on Item Response Theory and Computers and/or computer adaptive testing. This report discusses findings from 6 years of use of computer administered testing by The American College. In general, student performance on computer administered exams is as good as, if not better than, that on paper-and-pencil exams. Furthermore, students prefer computerized exams because (a) they may take the exam when they believe they are ready for it and (b) they receive their grade (pass or fail) immediately upon completion of the test. General considerations for the use of computers to administer tests and specific considerations and concerns for large-scale computer administered testing are noted. In general, the availability of computer hardware and software for testing does not make or even begin a testing program. It only enables such a program to be considered.