Browse Theses

The purpose of this study was to develop and investigate the effects of a computer mini-course in test-taking skills on the achievement of ninth grade general mathematics students.

Specific questions to be investigated with regard to the total test scores of the regents competency test were as follows: (1) Is there a significant difference between males and females__ __ (2) Is there a significant difference between Group I (Experimental) and Group II (Control)__ __ (3) Are there significant differences between the interaction of gender and treatment__ __

Two ninth grade classes consisting of 60 students that were enrolled in the course entitled, "Fundamentals of Mathematics" formed the sample for the study. Following the completion of the course, the experimental group was presented with The Computer Mini-Course in Test-Taking Skills; the control group was presented with the Basic Arithmetic Skills Instructional Intervention.

Each student was then required to take the Regents Competency Test in General Mathematics. The results of the test were compared to measure gains as to whether the experimental treatment had an effect upon students' mathematics achievement.

Differences were found between the experimental group using The Computer Mini-Course in Test-Taking Skills. The gains found were significant in favor of the experimental treatment. The findings of the study tend to support the hypothesis that, if general mathematics students are exposed to a computer mini-course in test-taking skills, their scores will increase. In addition, other findings support the view that when the test taker is provided with a learning intervention program in test-taking skills which integrates the use of the computer and meets individual student needs, the students' learning increases. The test taking skills presented in the mini-course proved helpful to the students with limited ability in answering multiple-choice type questions and word problems.