I think that it comes down to how well the students did on that particular test. If you the majority of students fail then perhaps the test format was wrong in determing their knowledge. A composition class would be better with an essay or short answer test then a multiple choice so this would show in the test scores.
When I dont give choices, students cannot remember the exact answer. They usually do better when it is a Multiple choice, true/false, or matching.
couldn't agree more: this way you can test even discussions that vary from class to class, and thereby
be more personal in nature.
Factual knowledge ok with multiple choice and word completion, whereas essay for concept and application of materials would be preferable.
I too think it is a good idea to have written questions before a lesson. I see how this not only ensures that I cover important points well but will allow me to see what the students know ahead of the lecture as to know what to cover more thoroughly.
I would determine the effectiveness of the type of test by my student's answer. Did I test them on what I taught? Did I offer a variety of test: multiple choise, T/F, matching?
The best way to determine how effective the type of test format used is to compare student responses on all questions. Questions that a majority of the students got correct may indicate that the question was too easy. Questions where a majority of the students got wrong may indicate a failure to adequately cover the content or that the question was too difficult.
I agree I use multiple choice test also. This helps the students prepare for the MBLEX. When the take the boards they will be doing multiple choice questions.
This can be somewhat of a trial and error situation. I always believe that I am constructing tests based on sound principles, but occasionally, subsequent discussions or subsequent tests make me realize that a good grade does not indicate mastery. Then I must go back to the drawing board.
Often the multiple-choice testing is answered on ScanTron sheets that are run through a machine for grading. This machine will then tell the instructor what percent of students answered each of the questions correctly. This is a great help to see where the student's knowledge base was lacking.
Hi Emily, Thanks for sharing good examples of assessment selection! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
One of the ways that I determine what works best in terms of test formats is to find out what the students' learning styles are. I used a little trial and error when I first started teaching. Most of the formats that I use now are based on what I learned before. For example, I used to have multiple choice exams. At the end of the term, I would ask basic questions of my students that they were unable to answer. This led me to question if multiple choice is a good format. Now, when I used short answer/essay with a little matching and true/false, I find that the students are able to answer basic questions later on. By applying what they have learned throughout the class, they are better able to retain the material.
Hi Stacy, Thanks for your post to the forum. Reviewing post-test is an excellent practice! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
The multiple choice questions are taken from the material and we review any questions that are missed by a majority of students.
A teacher should analyze the test results to determine if the results are aligned with expected student performance or is the test poorly aligned with determining if goals and objectives are met. Teachers should always be assessing the assessment method and improving testing methods according to epected student outcomes.
Providing test questions that consist of matching, true/false and multiple choice can help to assess a students understanding of material taught. Then review the material and provide feedback. I may even put a few essay questions to evaluate their level of understanding of most of content taught.
Hi Mary, Thanks for your post to the forum. You are using an excellent mix of assessments! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
Depending on the course material I would use objective tests e.g. true/false, multiple choice, and matching. For final exams I would use subjective tests e.g. short essay and fill in the blanks. This will allow me to evaluate the students comprehension of the course material.
Agreed, Nancy. The composition of my exams are typically guided by where the students are struggling the most. I be sure to review those areas and encourage outside preparation before administering the exam.
Hi Travis, Thanks for your post to the forum. Yes, we should always review how our previous class went to decide if we need to make revisions. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
