STUDENTS' PSYCHOLOGICAL PERCEPTION OF EXAM BROWSER CLIENT AS A DIGITAL ASSESSMENT TOOL

Abstract

This study investigates junior high school students' psychological perceptions of using the Exam Browser Client (EBC) as a digital tool for English summative assessment. Although digital assessment tools are increasingly adopted for efficiency and exam integrity, their psychological impact on younger EFL learners remains underexplored. This study examines five internal factors: student interest, anxiety, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and attitude toward technology. Using a descriptive qualitative case study design, data were collected from 33 students through questionnaires and from 12 students and one English teacher through semi-structured interviews at a junior high school in Cirebon, Indonesia. Questionnaire responses were analyzed descriptively, while interview data were analyzed qualitatively by category. The findings show that most students held positive perceptions of EBC, viewing it as enjoyable, efficient, and supportive of exam fairness. Some students initially felt anxious due to technical issues, but this anxiety decreased with familiarity and teacher support. Students also expressed positive attitudes toward technology, believing EBC improved their digital literacy. The study concludes that psychological factors should be considered alongside technical factors when implementing digital assessment tools for junior high school students.