The Science behind NCLEX CAT: What You Need to Know About NCLEX Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT)

If you've ever heard of the NCLEX (which we're sure you have), you'll know that it's not your typical exam. In many ways, this nursing licensing exam is unlike any other, and understanding all of its components is crucial to passing.

In this article, we'll look at the computerized adaptive testing method for scoring the NCLEX, how it works and why it’s used for arguably the most important test for aspiring USRNs. Let's begin by determining what the NCLEX CAT is.

What is Computer Adaptive Testing?

Computer Adaptive Testing or CAT is an exam administration system that combines computer technology with modern measurement theory to improve exam efficiency.

Why is Computer Adaptive Testing used for NCLEX?

The NCLEX uses CAT because:

• It reduces the number of easy items given to high-ability candidates; easy questions reveal little about the ability of a high-performing candidate.

• It reduces the number of difficult items given to low-ability applicants; candidates tend to guess overly difficult items, affecting outcomes.

• It reduces item exposure and the associated security risks.

• It enhances the precision of measurement of the nursing ability of the NCLEX candidate.

• It measures nursing competence in a valid and trustworthy manner.

How does NCLEX Computer Adaptive Testing work?

1. The computer re-estimates ability based on previous responses and the difficulty of the items for each answer to a question.
2. The computer chooses the next item, which you should have a 50% probability of answering correctly. As a result, the next item should not be too easy or too difficult. Its purpose is to gather as much information as possible about your genuine ability level. You might find each item challenging because each item is tailored to your skill level.
3. In every answer item, the computer's estimation of your ability enhances.

What are the pass/fail NCLEX CAT rules?

The computer uses one of three rules to determine whether you passed or failed the NCLEX:

• 95% Confidence Interval Rule

It is the most typical rule for NCLEX candidates. When the computer is 95% positive that your aptitude is clearly above or plainly below the passing standard, it will cease giving you items.

• Maximum-Length Exam Rule

When your ability is very near to the passing standard, the computer will continue to give you items until you reach the maximum number of items. The computer disregards the 95 % confidence rule at this stage and chooses whether you pass or fail based on your final ability estimation.

1. You pass if your final ability assessment is more than the passing standard.
2. You fail if your final ability is at or below the passing standard.

• Run-out-of-time Rule

If the applicant runs out of time before completing the maximum number of items, the computer cannot determine whether the candidate passed or failed with 95% certainty.

As a result, an alternate rule must be applied: 

1. A failing exam will happen if the candidate does not answer the required number of items.
2. If the candidate has finished the required number of items, the exam is assessed based on the final ability estimate generated from responses to all completed items.

• You pass if your final ability assessment is more than the passing standard.
• You fail if your final ability is at or below the passing standard.

We hope this information about Computer Adaptive Testing helps you to better understand how the NCLEX exam works and helps you to ace it on your first try. 

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