Item-Level Comparative Analysis of Computerized and Paper-Administered Math Tests in Early Elementary Grades

• In Event: Computerized Testing: New Developments and Comparability Issues

Abstract

Although previous research studies provided information on the effects of modes on different achievement tests, few of them specifically focused on early grade students who might have different psychological experience interacting with computerized (CBT) and paper-and-pencil (PPT) versions of tests. This study investigated the comparability of CBT and PPT for students in early grades (kindergarten and grade one). Comparability was studied in terms of item level equivalence, especially for distractor equivalence. Results supported the comparability across modes. Differences in item performance between PPT and CBT were examined to inform future test development.

Authors

• Ye Lin, University of Iowa

• Catherine Welch, University of Iowa

• Stephen B. Dunbar, University of Iowa