Psychological reactions to adaptive testing

The purpose of the study was to examine how specific aspects of adaptive te sting influence test-takers pre-test reactions. Specifically, three differe nt psychological reactions were examined in the study: perceived fairness o f the test, attitude toward the test, and expectations about the test. Fift y-three undergraduates were presented with descriptions of hypothetical sel ection tests that were manipulated to reflect characteristics of adaptive t ests that differ from traditional paper-and-pencil tests. The results indic ate that certain features of adaptive tests, such as the inability to skip questions, may adversely impact test-takers' reactions. Implications for te st designers are discussed.