Final Reflection: Assessment

So this week we talked about assessment; we compared pen and paper tests versus computer-based tests. We also read about multiple different types of tests like aptitude tests, placement tests, etc. It seems that computers are better for stable conditions, every test every time will have the same instructions, posed the same way as well as the same time limit and the same format, this can very when teachers write and or proctor tests. Computers are also able to figure out the test-takers level and only give questions that are in that students level, so none of the questions are too hard or too easy and the student potentially will have to answer less questions.
On the other hand, one major criticism with computer tests is that many students from different parts of the world are not familiar with taking tests on a computer and this could mean that they get a worse score just because they are unable to navigate the test effectively. To fix this students either ned to be trained beforehand, like through tutorials, or they should be offered the choice to do a pen and paper version of the test if they feel uncomfortable with a computer version. Additionally, many times there are technical problems with taking tests on the computer. When I took my Spanish placement test in order to study abroad I was unable to play the audio in the listening section of the test. Due to this I was unable to correctly answer any of the following questions and unfortunately no one I contacted was able to help me or allow me to retake that part of the exam. I just failed that section and was placed into a Spanish section that ended up being too easy for me. Another technical problem I have come in contact with is that fact that I use a Mac. Not all software is compatible with both a mac and a PC this is a problem because then I can't successfully finish a test or I have to try and find a different computer for that test. These problems all must be taken into consideration when deciding whether to give students a computer test or a traditional test.