Administering a microcomputer-based problem-solving examination.

Administering a microcomputer-based problem-solving examination in the basic sciences to medical students poses a series of practical concerns not associated with traditional types of testing. This article reviews the issues of planning, student preparation, exam scheduling, student verification, and software security. Also discussed are the effects on student scores of exam scheduling and of students' familiarity with computers, student evaluations of the exam, and security and technical difficulties.