The Impact of Computer Screen Resolution Setting on Student Computer-based Hands-on Task Performance in an Introductory Information Systems Course

Over the past several decades, considerable research has been completed exploring the possible influence various computer-based testing formats could have on student performance. Indeed, a simple search of the ERIC database using the descriptor “computer assisted testing” dated 1988 through 2008 returned over 1,800 citations. The thrust of many early studies was on assessing the consistency of student performance on computer-based and paper-andpencil versions of the same test. Most recently researchers have expressed the need for studies exploring the potential impact computer-based test interface configurations on student performance. Thus, the purpose of this posttest only experimental control group design study was to determine if there was a significant difference in student hands-on task performance based on computer screen resolution setting. Study results indicate that student hands-on task performance is not significantly impacted by computer screen resolution setting. These same results were found when the variable gender was included in the analysis.