Computer based exams (CBE’s) are becoming more and more common. Many CBE’s are like your traditional paper and pencil test, only digitalized. The test is the same for everyone taking it. With these types of exams you can go back and forth through the test like you can with a paper test.
But some computer based tests are computer adaptive (CAT) and the questions change depending on the accuracy of your answers. It is not possible to go on to the next question, or come back to a question you are unsure of in a CAT. The test starts out asking a standard question. People who answer correct are then given a more difficult question. People who don’t answer correct receive an easier question next time. Because the quality of the questions changes depending on a person’s accuracy, each test is often different for each person.
The most important tip in regards to taking a computer based exam is to utilize scrap paper. It can be more difficult reading long passages on a computer screen. In order to take in the whole passage, you may have to scroll down, and the actual question might be on the following page. So it is important to take notes as you go or even jot down diagram examples so that you will be prepared to answer the upcoming question. Scrap paper also comes in handy when figuring out math equations.
There are other strategies that can help you score well on CBE’s and CAT’s.
-Take advantage of practice tests. You might find a copy of a these practice computer tests at school or in the library. It’s best to find a CD-ROM that will let you take a practice test with your computer. You’ll get an opportunity to see how a computer test is set up, as well as give you practice in answering your questions digitally.
-Lots of computer based tests come with a tutorial that you can take prior to the test. It is well worth your time to check this tutorial out. There’s no time limit, and it will give you valuable insight into the test you are about to take.
-Both of these tests incorporate timed questions, so keep the clock in mind when answering your questions. There is often a clock on the computer screen indicating how much time you have left for each specific question, and it will give you a warning when you are at the five minute mark. So consider time while organizing your thoughts and answering questions.
-Don’t get stuck on one question. There are three sections to a CAT which are taken into consideration which are; the amount of questions you completed on the test, the amount of questions answered correctly, and the details and statistics on the information you provided within each answer. If you take an extended amount of time answering a question it will be noted and points can be taken off.
It’s important to find out the rules of you test. Find out if you can skip from question to question or if you have to answer each question in sequence. Find out how long the test is, and see if there is any opportunity to pause the test to take a break. Find out the specifics on how you log out of your Computer Based Test when you are finished. You don’t want to log out incorrectly and lose some of your test answers.
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