Evaluating Secondary Schools Students Perceptions of Computer - Based Testing (CBT) Towards the Creation of Credible Information for Improving Academic Assessments in Benin City
Abstract
The study is an evaluation of the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in computer-based examinations (CBT) among secondary school students in Benin City metropolis, Edo State, Nigeria. The main purpose of the study was to generate veritable information for the effective conduct of CBT examinations. Four specific objectives were raised to guide the study. Thus, four corresponding research questions and hypotheses were set up. These were directed at finding the perceptions of the level of digital literacy among students for CBT, the administration, effectiveness and challenges of CBT examinations in Benin City metropolis. The descriptive survey design was employed. The population of study was the senior secondary school students in Benin metropolis. A total of 101 students were selected using stratified random sampling technique from ten public secondary schools in the city as the sample for the study. A structured questionnaire containing 20 items was used to obtain responses from the sampled students, Findings revealed that the respondents were not sure that students: have adequate training on how to use ICT tools for exams or have regular practice with ICT learning materials. They agreed with the positions that ICT-based examinations in Benin City: are faster and more efficient than paper-based exams, gives immediate and accurate results, and motivates students to improve their computer skills. They however disagreed with the positions that ICT- based examinations in Benin City: are well organized, conducted without technical hitches and exams platforms are easy to navigate. They acknowledged significant challenges such as poor internet connectivity and inadequate infrastructure. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences in perceptions in almost all the indicators (p<0.05). The study recommended investments in ICT infrastructure, targeted digital training for students, and improved technical support to improve the implementation of IC
