Paper vs. Digital: The Evolving Landscape of Student Testing in Australia

Australian students are increasingly using computers for standardized tests, but recent studies reveal disparities in performance based on the medium. Younger students perform better on paper, especially with complex questions, due to cognitive load. Recommendations include extra time for computer tests and early word processing skills education.

Perth, Aug 23 (The Conversation) - Australian students are increasingly taking standardized tests on computers as part of a national effort to prepare them for a technology-driven future. This shift aims to harness the ubiquity of technology to better equip students with essential skills.

However, recent studies highlight significant discrepancies in student performance between computer-based and paper-based tests. Research involving students from 18 countries, including Australia, the United States, and Germany, indicates that younger students, who typically have less computer experience, tend to score higher on paper. The discrepancy diminishes as students grow older.

Particularly in complex questions requiring multiple steps, students exhibit lower scores on computer-based tests due to increased cognitive load. This phenomenon was also observed in a Perth study with Year 9 students, where easy questions saw higher scores on computers, while hard questions favored paper. The findings underscore the need for schools to provide extra time for complex computer tasks and to integrate word processing skills education early on.

(With inputs from agencies.)