A HISTORY OF CLASS PERFORMANCE WITH COMPUTER-BASED TESTING IN HISTOLOGY

John R. Cotter*, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214 U.S.A.

PURPOSE

Computer-based testing (CBT) is used to assess competence in histology. This study reviews performance and compares the results to classes tested in two earlier years by other means.

METHOD

The average and % passing were examined for two modules and two years of video- or print-based testing. Only data from tests covering similar content were considered. The number of students meeting and not meeting the standard for passing a second test after not meeting the standard on the first and the number of students not meeting the standard for passing the second test after meeting the standard on the first were counted. The class average was compared to criteria used in admissions.

RESULTS

Performance in the inaugural years of CBT was lower than the last five and the previous two years of video- and print-based testing. With the addition of a practice quiz, sample questions and a second test, performance returned to pre-CTB levels and years with high passing rates alternated with lower rates. Unsuccessful students did not always succeed on the second test, and some that did succeed on the first, did not always succeed on the second test. There was no correlation with admissions data.

CONCLUSION

The interventions improved the performance on CBT. A second test warns of a weakness but may not result in improved performance. Despite trying to prepare students and identify weaknesses some students fall short. Scores may be influenced by elusive factors beyond the control of an instructor, e.g., student behaviors.