TitleAssisted self-adapted testing: A comparative study
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2004
AuthorsHontangas, P, Olea, J, Ponsoda, V, Revuelta, J, Wise, SL
JournalEuropean Journal of Psychological Assessment
Volume20
Number1
Pagination2-9
Publication Languageeng
KeywordsAdaptive Testing, Anxiety, Computer Assisted Testing, Psychometrics, Test
Abstract

A new type of self-adapted test (S-AT), called Assisted Self-Adapted Test (AS-AT), is presented. It differs from an ordinary S-AT in that prior to selecting the difficulty category, the computer advises examinees on their best difficulty category choice, based on their previous performance. Three tests (computerized adaptive test, AS-AT, and S-AT) were compared regarding both their psychometric (precision and efficiency) and psychological (anxiety) characteristics. Tests were applied in an actual assessment situation, in which test scores determined 20% of term grades. A sample of 173 high school students participated. Neither differences in posttest anxiety nor ability were obtained. Concerning precision, AS-AT was as precise as CAT, and both revealed more precision than S-AT. It was concluded that AS-AT acted as a CAT concerning precision. Some hints, but not conclusive support, of the psychological similarity between AS-AT and S-AT was also found. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2005 APA ) (journal abstract)