Testing Off the Clock: Allowing Extended Time for All Students on Tests.

Abstract

Standardized time allotments are typically imposed for administration of nursing tests. There is little evidence to guide the determination of time allotment. When time allotted for tests is too limited, construct irrelevant variance in test scores may be introduced and the reliability of tests may be negatively impacted. For test administration, we establish a standard time allotment and offer all students the option of extended time. Many of the students use extended time, reporting that extended time reduces stress. Program outcomes have not been negatively affected. Data are provided to guide calculation of time allotment. Extended time may help relieve test anxiety and facilitate success for students with undiagnosed learning disabilities or non-native English speakers. Time allotment should be based on the item composition of tests using published mean item response times. Further research is needed. [J Nurs Educ. 2018;57(3):166-169.].