Higher Education Online

Computer-based testing has become one of the most useful aspects of online education. Unknown to many, there are actually two different types of testing commonly used in the classroom. When the average citizen thinks of tests, he or she is probably thinking of the exam that raises or lowers a student's grade, also known as a summative assessment. The other type of test is known as a formative assessment. This type of test aids in shaping the course of the learning process. As it has been found, either method can be employed by using a computer but doing so has a tendency to enhance the testing process compared to conventional paper and pencil exams. This results in even better test scores for many students.

With state of the art software, it is possible to create computer-based testing that keeps track of a student's average amount of time used on each question. This can be important not just in gauging comprehension but in discovering which areas of a subject may need more study. Another advantage is the opportunity to involve a number of visual aids or other multimedia options, such as flash movies or sound files. Students given a stimulating means of seeing or hearing questions during exams often do better than on simple form tests. The ability for computer-based tests to instantly score themselves not only allows instant access to results, it allows instructors to spend more time on other parts of the curriculum.

Another form of exam that is especially ideal for computer-based testing is that of adaptive assessment. In an adaptive assessment, teachers find that the exam is an even better appraisal of skills as it is one that tailors itself to a student's ability. While these tests are much shorter, they are also known to be more accurate. The computer software the exam consists of is specifically programmed to look for and record a certain set of preferred variables. The unbiased speed and accuracy of computer testing continues to be one of the great benefits of online learning for both students and teachers.

While some question the integrity of computer-based testing, regular program enhancements and updates ensure its reliability. Technology constantly advances allowing the implementation of new and innovative safeguards. Despite that these programs are considered to be fairly expensive due to their complex software, they are still most cost effective when it comes to the aspects of time and the long term expense of providing testing materials. With online curriculums that use computer testing, students can access the exam at any time and also rely on an accurate test scoring procedure. Another bonus is the ease of use, requiring only a basic familiarity in the way of computer savvy.

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