An investigation of the response time for maths items in a computer adaptive test

An important advantage of computer based testing over conventional paper and pencil based testing is that the response time to items from test takers can be accurately recorded for subsequent analysis. This study investigates the response time for maths items in a computer adaptive test designed as a baseline assessment for pupils aged from 11 to 18 in the UK. The results showed that the response time for all the items in the test generally increases with item difficulty, although significant variability exists. The item difficulty levels and the age and ability of test takers have significant influence on item response time.