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Table 5 Frequency and percent of reasons for test-takers’ presence and lack of self-confidence in CBW tests and sample comments across the levels

From: Validity of score interpretations on an online English placement writing test

Category

Higher-level

Lower-level

Sample comment

Positive

Benefits in composing processes

5 (9.26%)

5 (9.80%)

I have more idea.

It is easier organize the essay on the screen.

Convenience in writing

26 (48.15%)

19 (37.25%)

It’s more easier for me to check mistakes.

I can more easily change when I make mistakes.

Familiarity with CBW

6 (11.11%)

8 (15.69 %)

Nowadays, people use computer to write essay or mail more and more often.

It is more comfortable when I write on a computer

Keyboard typing-related reasons

13 (24.07%)

17 (33.33%)

It easier to write fast.

it is more neat as my handwriting is very messy.

Others

4 (7.41%)

2 (3.92%)

Computers provide the writer with a more clean & clear user interface.

This is what I prefer and what I think there is no certain reason

Subtotal

54 (100%)

51 (100%)

 

Negative

Typing-related issues

3 (50%)

1 (14.29%)

Because I am not good at typing, so actually I don't like writing on the computer.

Unfamiliarity with CBW

3 (50%)

5 (71.43%)

Taking writing test has to be on papers because we learned how to write in papers.

Eye fatigue

0 (0%)

1 (14.29%)

Because I am not good at typing, so actually I don't like writing on the computer.

Subtotal

6 (100%)

7 (100%)

 
  1. Notes. “Benefits for composing” includes reasons related to idea generation, organization, or longer text length; “Convenience in writing” encompasses reasons relevant to ease of deletion and useful functions available on computers for review and revising processes (e.g., spell checker); grammatical mistakes left intact in the sample comments