The use of on-screen calculator as a digital tool in technology-enhanced items

Abstract

In this study, the effect of using on-screen calculators on eighth grade students’ performance on two TIMSS 2019 Problem Solving and Inquiry Tasks items considered as examples of technology-enhanced items administered on computers was examined. For this purpose, three logistic regression models were run where the dependent variables were giving a correct response to the items and the independent variables were mathematics achievement and on-screen calculator use. The data of student from 12 countries and 4 benchmarking participants were analyzed and some comparisons were made based on the analyses. The results indicate that using on-screen calculators is positively associated with higher odds of giving correct responses for both items above and beyond students’ mathematics achievement scores. The results of this study promote the inclusion of on-screen calculator as a digital tool in technology-enhanced items that require problem solving.