The Impact of Formative Computer-Based Testing on Learners’ Anxiety and Performance on the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography Examination

Abstract

The intent of this research was to evaluate the effects of computerized mock examinations on student performances during the preparatory stage for a national board examination. Three measures were used: web-based surveys, student data from the ExamSim software (treatment group), and American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) examination scores. Three research questions were posed: (1) What are the differences in ARDMS scores between the treatment and control groups? Mean scores showed that the treatment group scored significantly higher than the control group on the ARDMS examination. (2) To what degree did the scores and time invested on the ExamSim software predict performance on the ARDMS examination? A multiple linear regression was conducted, and the result was significant, with time and software scores accounting for 37.6% of the variance in ARDMS scores. (3) How did utilizing a formative computer-based assessment change perceived testing anxiety levels during the test preparatory phase? The result of the dependent sample t test was significant. Self-perceived scores at posttreatment were lower than self-perceived scores at pretreatment.