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Development and Preliminary Evaluation of an Automated Test Anxiety Reduction Program for a Computer-Based Learning Situation.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Development and Preliminary Evaluation of an Automated Test Anxiety Reduction Program for a Computer-Based Learning Situation.
Authors: Richardson, Frank C., Texas Univ., Austin. Computer-Assisted Instruction Lab.
Peer Reviewed: N
Page Count: 42
Publication Date: 1973
Sponsoring Agency: National Science Foundation, Washington, DC.
Report Number: TU-CAI-TR-20
Descriptors: Academic Achievement, Adjustment (to Environment), Anxiety, Autoinstructional Aids, Cognitive Processes, College Students, Computer Assisted Instruction, Desensitization, Educational Research, Learning Processes, Self Evaluation, Self Help Programs, Test Wiseness, Videotape Recordings
Abstract: An automated program for the reduction of test anxiety in a computer-based learning situation has been developed. Its main components are: 1) a self-study manual containing information and written exercises dealing with coping with test anxiety; 2) a videotape of modeled effective and ineffective coping with anxiety on tests; 3) a brief, modified systematic desensitization procedure; and 4) a session of practicing coping with anxiety in a computer-guided testing situation. The objective was to provide an inexpensive service for test-anxious students. Preliminary investigation of the program's effectiveness in the context of a sequence of computer-managed instructional modules found a highly significant reduction in self-reported test anxiety as compared with a no-contact control group of highly test-anxious students. Slight indications of improved performance on the modules for the treatment groups were also noted. Future research will be directed at overcoming difficulties in detecting improved performance following reduction of test anxiety and toward eliminating the relaxation and desensitization component of the program in favor of increased emphasis upon practicing test-taking and anxiety management skills. (Author/PB)
Journal Code: RIEFEB1974
Entry Date: 1974
Accession Number: ED082532
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:An automated program for the reduction of test anxiety in a computer-based learning situation has been developed. Its main components are: 1) a self-study manual containing information and written exercises dealing with coping with test anxiety; 2) a videotape of modeled effective and ineffective coping with anxiety on tests; 3) a brief, modified systematic desensitization procedure; and 4) a session of practicing coping with anxiety in a computer-guided testing situation. The objective was to provide an inexpensive service for test-anxious students. Preliminary investigation of the program's effectiveness in the context of a sequence of computer-managed instructional modules found a highly significant reduction in self-reported test anxiety as compared with a no-contact control group of highly test-anxious students. Slight indications of improved performance on the modules for the treatment groups were also noted. Future research will be directed at overcoming difficulties in detecting improved performance following reduction of test anxiety and toward eliminating the relaxation and desensitization component of the program in favor of increased emphasis upon practicing test-taking and anxiety management skills. (Author/PB)