An Examination of the Equivalence between Non-Adaptive Computer-Based and Traditional Testing

Abstract

With the increasing availability of computer-based testing programs, many instructors are beginning to adapt traditional paper-pencil tests to electronic formats. While there are advantages to computer-based testing over traditional testing, there is considerable debate concerning the equivalence of scores obtained from these testing modalities. Past research has cited limitations in computer-based testing (such as inability to review questions, change answers or skip questions, and the motivation of the examinees) that may impact test-takers' scores and reduce equivalence to identical paper-pencil tests. The purpose of the current study is to examine the equivalence between computer-based and traditional tests when the computer testing program provides opportunities comparable to paper testing conditions. Twenty-seven introductory psychology students completed ten identical unit tests via paper or computer. The results indicated that, when students are motivated and testing conditions are equivalent, there are no differences between the scores obtained via computer-based or paper-pencil tests.