Are your student’s standardized tests online? Are they going to be? Why are computer-based tests becoming so popular anyway?
The Future of Standardized Testing
For those of you who aren’t in the mood to watch the video, let me give you a quick summary:
- 48 out of 50 states have computer-based testing
- Many states are eliminating paper-and-pencil tests
- Online testing is almost certainly the future of standardized testing.
At the moment, some of those 48 states have both computer-based testing and paper-and-pencil tests, but according to their Department of Education websites (There’s one for each state!), many of them are working to allow paper-and-pencil tests only in special cases where a student is unable to take the test on the computer.
Why Use Computer-based Tests?
So what is the advantage? Why are so many states moving to computer-based assessments?
- Computer adaptive technology allows schools to get a more accurate understanding of each student’s level. It shows each student different questions based on whether the previous answer was correct or incorrect.
- The student’s level can be found with a shorter test.
- Adaptive questions make it harder for students to cheat.
- Faster scores: once systems are in place, scores can be available immediately, much faster than sending the tests out to be scored and returned.
- Scoring breakdowns automatically indicate areas where each student needs more practice.
- Additionally, schools and parents can still be compare and analyze scores on a national level when multiple states utilize the same testing system.
- Students gain experience with technology, which is necessary for both college and most jobs.
Have your students taken any student assessments online? What did you think?
Author: Elizabeth F., Writer and Teacher at A Grade Ahead