A highly controversial and ongoing topic between students and teachers is the usage of digital AP exams versus paper-based AP exams. Many students have become used to typing on Chromebooks, as hundreds of schools have added technology into their curriculum and provided students with chromebooks or ipads. However, not all schools have the resources to afford Chromebooks, whether due to financial issues or school policies that do not prioritize digital learning. This issue raises concern since most schools have the advantage of knowing how to type fast and handle the advanced system of the chromebook than schools that aren’t used to the usage of it.
Teachers as well as students were interviewed on this topic and their feelings about which they feel is a better approach.
Aleena Hussain, a senior, responded, “I absolutely hate it, I think it’s helpful for certain courses such as computer-based courses; I’m taking a class right now and I did a practice on college board and it was horrible since it was so hard to annotate and also having to type. I’m not the best typer, so I have a disadvantage. Other courses such as math, I’d rather write my equations on a sheet of paper rather than having an extra sheet of paper but then I feel like it’s a waste since it’s a waste of paper.”
Students and teachers shared mixed opinions on digital testing. Ms. Garvey, an AP Psychology teacher stated, “I definitely knew it was coming, especially for tests like my AP Psych exams, which involve multiple choice and easily typed essays. It also speeds up grading.”
Ms. Marathe, an AP Math teacher, acknowledged the shift’s inevitability but highlighted challenges for math. “There was a big issue with cheating, which led to this change. Digitalization is the future, but math requires writing and problem-solving. I’m fine with multiple choices being online, but free-response should stay on paper.”
Mr. Whittemore, an AP English teacher, expressed disappointment. He said, “The exam is nearly identical, just on a computer, but it’s much more effective on paper.”
Similarly, Ms. Strauch recognized digital testing’s efficiency yet noted limitations in math and science: “It streamlines the process globally, but certain subjects face challenges. Schools with one-to-one devices are at an advantage, while others may struggle.”
When asked if digital testing is fair for all students, teachers shared a common view: Bethpage High School provides Chromebooks, ensuring fairness within the school.
However, students without digital access elsewhere may face disadvantages.
