Today at 4 in the Lyceum, professor Michael Lucci will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using computers in high stakes testing. The seminar also will cover useful test-taking strategies and test-development methods.

“I wanted to do this because it will help both me in research for a graduate course and any interested students who might take a computer-based test,” Lucci said.

Schools and testing organizations used computer administered tests (CATs) for convenience — “because it is an efficient way to give tests and to provide similar but different questions,” he said.

CATs has both pros and cons. The tests can provide immediate feedback (the same day a student takes the test). However they do not always provide a chance for students to review their answers, and students might not be used to taking them.

CATs can also be stressful for those who has never taken one before.

“As a student applying to graduate school,” Lucci said, “I took the pencil-and-paper format of the GRE and then about 17 years later, I took the computerized format. They were different experiences. Many people are anxious about taking tests, whether the test is for entrance to a university or for a license or certification to work.”

Dr. Gary Hart , a math instructor, has used some forms of CATs in previous years of teaching and still uses them today.

“Theoretically, I am a proponent for CATs,” Hart said. “I have absolutely nothing against a CAT which is well done. Properly administered and monitored, I believe they can be extremely useful.

“In math, a lot of students have the potential for doing well, but they don’t because they don’t do enough of any homework problems. Also, many won’t do homework problems unless it is graded. I had an opportunity to try different online homework grading systems. In addition to having computer-assisted homework problems, I have expanded some to give me computer-assisted quizzes. I still use them.”

Lucci also will incorporate applications of psychology, mathematics, computer science and statistics in hopes that students attending will get a lot out of it.

“I think students will like to hear about some test taking strategies,” Lucci said. “Students who are interested in graduate education or applied math might like to attend to see what possibilities exist.”