Open book type tests
More of a question than a comment here... What about open book tests? Are open book tests that require a student to resource, read and understand information to correctly answer a test question valid? What might some pros or cons of this type of testing be?
A variation to the 'open note' quizzes is a 3x5 card. On an instructor provided 3x5 card, students write anything they want from the textbook and/or notes. They can use the note card while taking the quiz and it is collected with the quiz.
HI Nathan - Thanks for your post to the forum. Some students have an advantage with open book tests because they can read quickly and are able to scan the book to access the answers without having done much advance studying. I agree that a mix of open and closed book assessments is the way to go. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I have started using open book tests in some of my classes as well. I believe it helps prepare the students for the real world as well, since they definitely have access to everything in the real-world. Unfortunately, I don't think the students study as hard for the open-book tests, and many still struggle to find the answers. I think a mix of open and closed-book tests may be a good way to go.
I like them as they are research for the students- and they amy remember more this way
Hi George- I agree with you! Many instructors refuse to give open note or open book tests , but if the students are carefully guided to understand the importance of good note-taking and concentration on the text, such assessments are really effective. Best wishes - Susan
I like to do "open note" quizzes. This encourages students to be on time, and take proper notes. Exams I sometimes break up into open- book open note, and brain-only portions.
Open book tests work well in part of our cirriculum, when I know they have a heavy schedule with the other instructor and big A&P tests to study for, I usually give open book in my class. This is after we have had class theory on the chapter and they have done the chapter workbook also. They really appreciate it since we have learned that with our students they all have families, jobs and a life they never have time to study outside of class,even with the greatest intentions. 90% is done in school.We know they have heard and discussed the material, looked up answers for the workbook and again looked up answers for the test.And checked discussed in class again. It has worked well.
I dislike them....true mastery, should be stored in the brain
even with your notes and open book quizes you have to remember how to find they material in a quick fashion
Hi John - I think this type of test also encourages students to become familiar with the textbook as they know it will be the source of the test answers.
I've taken open book tests that were quite challenging. Setting an appropriate time limit would be a very important part of designing this test. Being able to use reference materials quickly and accurately is part of the feedback from this test. Very useful skill, especialy in tech heavy courses. Usually there are questions that can't be found in the printed resources because they were covered in class. From the start of the course we were aware that this was the style of test we would be taking and it motivates you to pay attention, take good notes, and familarize yourself with the reference materials.
I agree, when cover general information and
understanding an open book test can defeat
the purpose and take entirely to much time,
but for specifications and procedures an
open book test is a learning tool where
the students continue to learn to use service
manuals and notes under pressure where the
answers need to be right the first time.
I like to use open book test. I feel that if the test is written correctly the student will learn from this type of test.
Good question but I think it would make a student not study at home and will rely on it being done in class. What I do is write on the board on what we covered on lecture and have them open the books and I give them time to find the answer but they need there own time at home to study . Think about what would happen if you were sick for a few days and the instructor covering your class does things diffarent! Good job .
I use all open book tests except for my diving practicum which is pass or fail - no other options are available. With observation I evaluate students on skill application- applied knowledge in up to five segments of the practicum. With other related courses the tests are forty multiple choice and ten essay(short and specific answers). It is critical that students have adequate reading skills and can demonstrate understanding of complex material. I like open book tests because in involves searching for specific answers which cannot always be rote learning. I usually tell them that knowing all isn't as important as knowing where to find it all.
I like open book test if the question are complex and they need to develope the answered
A very good point, Joseph.
open book test can be very useful when you need an answer that is not really a general answer. Like for specifications on something. When it comes to manuals, you can't memerize it all and it is quicker to know where to find the answers.
I do not use open book tests, I think the it is to easy for students to use the books rather then study and learn the infomation. I use questions that come from their notes, powerpoint or movies for that class
