Over the last decade, larger student numbers, reduced resources and increasing use of new technologies have led to the increased use of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) as a method of assessment in higher education courses. This paper identifies some limitations associated with MCQs from a pedagogical standpoint. It then provides an assessment…

The importance of item feedback in self-adapted testing was studied by comparing feedback and no feedback conditions for computerized adaptive tests and self-adapted tests taken by 363 college students. Results indicate that item feedback is not necessary to realize score differences between self-adapted and computerized adaptive testing. (SLD)

A scheme of testing that will clearly discern whether a student has learned the material that has been set out as the goal is discussed. The fear of computer-assisted testing is seen as so widespread that perhaps the idea is too far ahead of our time. (MLW)

Technology-mediated instruction is changing the educational environment by adding another dimension to teaching and learning. Despite the advances in technology and the way we use technology, little attention has been given to providing technology solutions that help create, conduct, and manage the central task of assessment. Software to manage…

Studied effects of administration mode [computer adaptive test (CAT) versus self-adaptive test (SAT)], item-by-item answer feedback, and test anxiety on results from computerized vocabulary tests taken by 293 college students. CATs were more reliable than SATs, and administration time was less when feedback was provided. (SLD)

A study of 696 undergraduates at the University of Northern Colorado was undertaken to determine the effects of computerized unit test item feedback on final examination scores. The study, which employed the PHOENIX computer managed instruction system, included students at all undergraduate levels enrolled in an Oceanography course. To determine…

The computer assisted testing (CAT) program at Florida State University's Assessment Resource Center is described. Three measurement issues (test quality, confidence in mastery decisions, and maintenance of test validity) and two instructional design issues (quality of instructional objectives and extended feedback following testing) important for…

Describes research conducted in the United Kingdom that asked Open University distance education students what type of assignment feedback they would like to receive. Interviews with 22 students are discussed that ascertained their views regarding feedback on tutor-marked assignments and computer-marked assignments. (Author/LRW)

This paper reviews the role of ICT-based assessment in the light of the growing use of virtual learning environments in universities. Issues of validity, efficiency, type of response, and scoring are addressed. A major area of research is the automated scoring of text. Claims for automated formative assessment are queried, since the feedback of…

Describes two studies that evaluated the effectiveness of a World Wide Web-based formative assessment package used in undergraduate psychology courses. Students taking online multiple-choice tests received instant feedback, and results showed that students who used the package performed better than those who did not. (Author/LRW)

The document is part of the final report on Project STEEL (Special Teacher Education and Evaluation Laboratory) intended to extend the utilization of technology in the training of preservice special education teachers. This volume focuses on the third of four project objectives, the development and implementation of a computer-based testing…

Discusses the unique advantages provided by computer-based (CB) testing. Describes the various forms of CB tests used in higher education and the variety of testing applications of computers in colleges and universities. Presents psychometric issues and concerns related to CB testing along with relevant research findings. (Author/PVV)

This paper considers efforts made in evaluating a distance-learning course, which was intended to prepare students for working on an undergraduate dissertation in business and economic areas. Course delivery had stressed a tutorial approach with an emphasis on individual mentor-student exchanges. Given the nature of the learning approach and the…

Although there are many advantages to using computer-based tests (CBTs) linked to computer-based instruction (CBI), there are also several difficulties. In certain instructional settings, it is difficult to conduct psychometric analyses of test results. Several measurement issues surface when CBT programs are linked to CBI. Testing guidelines…

The Assessment Resource Center (ARC) at Florida State University provides computer assisted testing (CAT) for approximately 4,000 students each term. Computer capabilities permit a small proctoring staff to administer tests simultaneously to large numbers of students. Programs provide immediate feedback for students and generate a variety of…