Hello All,

I have enjoyed reading what others have shared on this topic so far. Here are my initial thoughts based on what has been shared so far.

There are a couple of different issues related to computer based testing for the GED exam. They involve the actual test being presented to all learners in a computer format, the type of preparation we need to provide to our students, and how this skill / testing opportunity will help our learners transition into higher education. 

First, computer-based GED testing will probably happen at some point in time.  As many of you have indicated it is already happening with a variety of tests and certifications.  Our role is to first identify the goals of moving toward computer-based GED testing and then to research the processes and procedures for those that are successfully administrating computer-based testing to determine how these models can be applied to adult education. This really centers around the monitoring and logistics piece of implementing computer-based GED testing. This process should also include a cost comparison of the computer-based testing models so informed decisions could be made relating to the impact it on our audience.

Secondly, we need to consider the impact of the digital divide and how that relates to what we, in adult education, should be looking to provide for our students. If our students are faced with a technology learning deficit then what is our role in assisting  our students in overcoming that learning deficit? Our tasks as educators is to prepare students to reach their goals of earning their GED credentials as well as helping them build the necessary skill set to move to higher education or the workforce.  Technology is a huge component of this preparation.  If our instruction blends appropriate and meaningful technology integration, then our students will be prepared for both a traditional pencil and paper test or a computer generated test.

 
I look forward to our continued dialogue on this topic.

Crystal Hack
GED-i Project Director


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Center for the Application of Information Technologies