The hypothesis that previously found effects of self-adapted testing (SAT) are attributable to examinees' having an increased perception of control over a stressful testing situation was studied with 377 college students who took computerized adaptive tests or SAT. The strongest preference for SAT was seen in individuals with the highest…

This article summarizes prior research findings on self-adapted testing (SAT) and examines the hypothesis that positive effects from SAT are the result of examinees perceiving greater control over the testing situation, which may lead to reduced test anxiety and improved performance. Prior research on perceived control is also discussed. (SLD)

Compared easy and difficult versions of self-adapted tests (SAT) and computerized adapted tests. No significant differences were found among the tests for estimated ability or posttest state anxiety in studies with 187 Spanish high school students, although other significant differences were found. Discusses implications for interpreting test…