skip to main content skip to footer

Effects of Mode of Presentation on Essay Scores

Author(s):
Powers, Donald E.; Farnum, Marisa
Publication Year:
1997
Report Number:
RM-97-08
Source:
ETS Research Memorandum
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
10
Subject/Key Words:
Computer Assisted Testing, Essay Tests, Scoring

Abstract

This study was undertaken to assess the effect of scoring essays when presented on computer screens vs. on paper. A slight advantage was detected for handwritten over word-processed essays — an effect noted in earlier studies. There was no indication of any effect due to displaying and scoring essays on a computer screen vs. presenting them in paper format.

Read More