The use of aptitude and competency testing in the public school system can have some undesired effects on students in terms of the stress and anxiety tests can impose. Adolescence is already a time in a child's life when many different pressures are coming to bear upon the psyche. Among the most undesirable consequences that can result from the additional pressures brought on by examinations such as minimum competency testing are increased dropout rates. The research literature indicates that microcomputers and computer assisted instruction can serve as excellent tools for relieving some of the problems associated with high stakes testing. Because of the computer's ability to provide individualized levels of instruction, non-threatening situations in which to learn and make mistakes, and high levels of feedback, reinforcement, and encouragement, it can serve as an excellent classroom aid which can reduce the probability of negative identity formation. The motivational qualities of the computer, in addition to its ability to facilitate instruction--reducing the amount of time necessary to convey the material--also serve to illustrate how the computer can potentially improve the overall quality of instruction in the classroom. (21 references) (DB)