Improving Skills in Senior Secondary Schools for Effective Performance in Computer Based Test and Security.

Abstract

Students are accessed using paper and pen on cognitive abilities in Nigeria. This method of assessment encourages different forms of examination malpractices. The threat of examination malpractices on the validity of examination outcomes has resulted in some examination bodies adopting different methods of examination. One of such methods is the computer based test (CBT). Using survey research method, this study investigated the levels of competency in computer literacy skills possessed by senior secondary school students. Three research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. Problems encountered by the students and prospective methods of enhancing computer based test (CBT) acceptance in Nigeria were also documented. A total of 310 copies of the questionnaire were administered to students who participated in the 2015 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) at Afrihub Information and Communication Technology (CBT) centre, Institution of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu and Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu and 237 representing 76% were adequately completed and found usable. The findings revealed among others that majority of the respondents confirmed that CBT can curb examination malpractice. Majority of candidates were also found to prefer CBT to the paper and pencil test (PPT). The mean, standard deviation and Pearson‟s Correlation Analysis showed that the respondent is preference for CBT were sensitive across gender. While improving electricity was identified as critical in enhancing CBT examinations, poor ICT skills on the part of students and the invigilators were also identified as the major problems facing the implementation of JAMB CBT examination in Nigeria.