Factors in Paper-and-Pencil and Computer Reading Score Differences at the Primary Grades

This study investigated factors related to score differences on computerized and paper-and-pencil versions of a series of primary K–3 reading tests. Factors studied included item and student characteristics. The results suggest that the score differences were more related to student than item characteristics. These student characteristics include response style variables, especially omitting, and socioeconomic status as measured by free lunch eligibility. In addition, response style and socioeconomic status appear to be relatively independent factors in the score differences. Variables studied but not found to be related to the format score differences included association of items with a reading passage, item difficulty, and teacher versus computer administration of items. However, because this study is the 1st to study the factors behind these score differences below Grade 3, and because a number of states are increasing computer testing at the primary grades, additional studies are needed to verify the importance of these 2 factors.