Comparing two methods of traditional and electronics tests based on attitude and experiences of medical students: A combined study

Today, using computer-based tests has received more attention than traditional tests (pencil and paper) in universities. Given the key role of students, their knowledge and attitude to implement this method can be helpful. This study was performed to compare two methods of traditional and electronic tests based on attitude and experiences of medical students.

This mixed method study (quantitative and qualitative) was conducted in medical faculty of Guilan University of Medical Sciences. Samples were selected through census method. In the final exam, medical students (n=54) were randomly divided into two groups, half in traditional test and the other half in electronic test. In the quantitative section, Studentschr('39') Attitude was measured using self-structured questionnaires whose validity and reliability had been confirmed. Then the experiences of 19 students in the qualitative part were collected through individual interviews and purposive sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed by mean, standard deviation and T-independent test also, qualitative data by content analysis approach.

Results show that attitude’s mean score in electronic test group (39.36±6.37) was more than traditional group(38.25±5.2) but there was no significant differences between two groups(p=0.508).In qualitative part, Four main categories (electronic test efficiency, unfamiliar innovation, challenging the old format, smoothing ways) and 15 subcategories were extracted.

The results indicated that there was no significant difference in studentschr('39') attitudes in traditional and electronic tests. To solve or reduce some of the problems in the electronic test, students refer to aware of test process before exam and having the draft paper available.