Paper tests vs online tests

Predictions

Back in 2013, it was predicted that online tests would come to replace paper exams within a decade.

Now, at the half-way stage of this supposed evolution, let’s take a step back and see where things stand: is there still an appetite for online testing rather than paper testing? What are the benefits and what are the flaws? In a contest of Paper vs Online Tests, which would win?

And more importantly, which one should I choose?

What is an online test, and what are the benefits?

Online tests, or computer-based tests, are exams that are not done with a pen or paper, but are taken on a computer, in a computer lab, under exam conditions. We know that in some exams, such as the driving theory tests, SATS tests, or certain speed tests to measure IQ, online testing and computer-based exams are the norm.

However, it has only been two years since it’s been possible to take the IELTS online test, known as computer-delivered IELTS, and whilst being available in over 15 countries, it’s not yet possible to take the computer-based test in the UK, Australia, or the US, for example.

So, why have them at all?

More choice

Well, the first thing is that it opens up more choice for candidates. Needing less administration (no more printing, handing out, collecting of papers, etc), computer-based tests can be available on more days of the week, so you can choose the most convenient time for you.

Moreover, as the answers you give are online, it means that marking can be done more quickly. No more agonising waits for a fortnight: the results can be with you within 5-7 days.

But can they be trusted?

There is some debate in academic circles about the reliability of online testing. Does it make the tests easier if everything is just multiple choice, for example?

With the IELTS online test, however, there is no difference between the paper exam and the online one. The format is exactly the same as the paper test: i.e. the content, timings, structure, marking, question types and security are all identical. The only difference is that one is done with a pen and paper, and the other with a screen, keyboard, and mouse. And don’t worry about not wanting to ‘speak to a computer’ to do your speaking test: you don’t. That’s the only paper that you actually do face-to-face, as with the paper test.

Hmmm, but I’m still not sure I feel comfortable with doing a test on a computer. There must be some downsides to a computer test?

Not everyone prefers a screen

If you’re not entirely convinced, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Not everyone likes working on a computer to do a test, and actually, there is some evidence that test-takers score less on a computer that they do with a pen and paper.

Why? Well, take the IELTS reading test for example. With the text printed on paper, you can physically underline and mark things - maybe you need this kinaesthetic approach in order to answer your questions. You need to feel the power of pen or pencil on paper. Or, in terms of reading and finding key words, you can flip backwards and forwards between passages easily by flipping pages, rather than scrolling up and down with a mouse and getting blurred-lines vision!

Perhaps a computer screen and keyboard just don’t feel so comfortable in an exam situation.

Typing versus handwriting

On the other hand, for many of us currently in work, when was the last time we had to write a significantly long piece of text using a pen?

Most of us are more comfortable - and faster - at typing on a keyboard these days. We are used to the ability to go back and easily delete and re-write text that we've just written.

What happens next?

So, what of the prediction I described at the beginning of this blog post? Will paper-tests really disappear in the next few years?

It’s hard to say if they will entirely. There is no doubt that online, computer-based tests are easier to administer, and if we practise and get familiar with the online / computer-based format, maybe we’ll find them easier to use too. It’s all a case of becoming familiar with a test to take the fear away and help you concentrate on doing the best you can.

There are no doubt benefits to online testing, but then again, there are benefits to paper tests too. So I think all we can safely say at this point is that the jury is out!

So, which one should I choose?

If you think it might be for you, have a go. If not, and you really do feel that the pen is mightier that the keyboard, don’t panic, paper-based tests will be around for a while longer yet anyway!