A score comparability study for the NBDHE: paper-pencil versus computer versions.

This study evaluated the comparability of a paper-pencil (PP) version and two computer-based (CB) versions of the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. Comparability was evaluated by validity and psychometric criteria. Data were collected from the following resources: (1) 4,560 candidates enrolled in accredited dental hygiene programs who took the PP version in the Spring 2009, (2) 973 and 1,033 candidates enrolled in accredited dental hygiene programs who took two separate CB versions in 2009, and (3) the survey data from 2,486 candidates who took the CB versions in 2009. The results from the PP and CB versions were found to be comparable on several criteria.

Generalizability analyses of NBDE Part II.

This research applied generalizability theory to assess the effect of varying the number of cases and items nested within cases on generalizability of scores on Part II of the National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE Part II). In this research, sources of error were defined. Measurement conditions were classified. Error variances and generalizability coefficients for different conditions were computed. The data analyzed were the item responses of 1,535 candidates enrolled in accredited dental education programs who all took the same test form in 2007. Results showed that using more cases of fewer items might lead to a greater increase in generalizability than using more items per case. Other practical considerations such as time and cost constraints must be taken into account when applying the results of this research in other testing situations.