The use of spreadsheet tools in assessment: an instrumented technique perspective

A challenge in computer-based assessment, especially when introducing specific digital tools, is balancing mathematics assessment with students’ computer skills. This exploratory qualitative study aims to investigate aspects of student-tool-interaction, essential to consider when designing digital tools for assessment. Eight 15-year-old students worked in pairs with three digital test items employing interactive spreadsheet tools, followed by semi-structured interviews. The combined analysis of observations of students’ interactions with the items and the interviews indicates difficulties in using basic spreadsheet functions – despite their conceptual understanding of the tools. The main implications of the findings emphasize the importance of integrating digital tools into learning situations before assessment, and not taking basic tool-related techniques for granted.