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As we continue our exploration of modern assessment, I wanted to dive deep into the long-standing debate between digital and paper-based administration. While many of us have made the switch to platforms like Q-interactive, concerns about mode effects and statistical differences in scores remain a common point of anxiety. In this discussion, I review the robust research confirming cross-mode equivalence for most cognitive subtests, but I also highlight critical nuances like technology anxiety in older adults and the tactile friction gap that can influence fine motor performance. We also look at the significant advantage of digital tools in eliminating the 5% human error rate common in manual scoring. To wrap up, I outline a 2026 mode integrity protocol to help you maintain data purity, including screening for digital literacy and proper documentation of your administration methods.

Main Topics

00:35: The evolution of digital platforms and research regarding mode effects
01:15: Meta-analysis findings on cross-mode equivalence for cognitive subtests
01:50: User experience bias and the impact of technology anxiety on older adults
03:02: The tactile friction gap and how stylus-on-glass influences motor speed
04:15: Human error rates in manual scoring and the benefits of digital clerical accuracy
05:40: Granularity in timing and the value of millisecond-accurate digital precision
06:45: The 2026 mode integrity protocol for clinical practice
08:35: Best practices for documenting digital administration and AI disclosures in reports

Cool Things Mentioned

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Featured Resources

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About Dr. Jeremy Sharp

I’m a licensed psychologist and Clinical Director at the Colorado Center for Assessment & Counseling, a private practice that I founded in 2009 and have grown to over 20 clinicians. I earned my undergraduate degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina before getting my Master’s and PhD in Counseling Psychology from Colorado State University. These days, I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological evaluation with kids and adolescents.

As the host of the Testing Psychologist Podcast, I provide private practice consulting for psychologists and other mental health professionals who want to start or grow psychological testing services in their practices. I live in Fort Collins, Colorado with my wife (also a therapist) and two young kids.

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561. Digital vs. Analog Administration: Research & Practice