A comparability study of handwritten versus typed responses in high-stakes English language writing tests

This paper investigates fairness in writing test scores terms of candidates who completed a either by hand or typed, on computer. The data for this large-scale comparability study comprise taking English language tests at four CEFR levels – B1 to C2 the period 2019–2022. were analysed via effect size differences and equivalence tests. Measured size, small amount difference was apparent obtained between two production modes B1, B2 C1 levels. At level, there medium indicative favour computer-produced scripts. Differences observed an adaptation standard t-test not found be statistically significant. contribution research knowledge lies fact that (with exception level) whether are written computer, while is slight skew towards higher with computer-processed texts, generally receive similar both modes. Practically, may elect write computer without fear bias.