I use standardised multiple choice questions, they are less intimidating, but also after the quiz I go over it with the class. it gives them another layer of exposure to the metterial by reading through the questions again as a class 7 then discussing the answers
I teach physics, and we usually give problems for students to solve. The choice is between several short problems, or a few large, more involved ones. During the semester midterm exams, we use several short problems to cover the breadth of material, while in the final, we have fewer problems, each of which may require use of concepts covered in different areas (chapters) of the course.
Hi Adam, You are using a very comprehensive assessment strategy - great work!
Susan Polick
I like to use a variety of formats and see what works best for that particular class then I prepare tests according to results.
Determined by what I need the Student to demonstrate they have learned. Also consider provided materials by publisher.
It really depends on what I am teaching. I use a variety of testing formats but I use less essay tests than anything.
For examinations, I do my best to use the test to model the "integrative thinking" that I usually try to get students to do. Because of this, I often utilize short-answer exams, where I ask for about 50 words written in full sentences. As the content pointed out, this is a useful way to assess whether students have bridged the gap between content and ideas.
Also as stated in the content, true/false, completion, and multiple choice exams examine whether students have mastered smaller bits of information, so I use these as "CATs" -- or quicker, short assessments to see if students are taking on the content as we move along in the course.
It depends on the course, but for the most part I use both multiple choice, and short-answer questions.
It will be based on the specific subject material to be covered in the course. For my A&P couses, I usually select a combination of multiple choice, T or F, fill-ins and matching. These formats ae clear and to the point for the subject. When dealing with diseases, I usually would eant the students to explain the process and see how well they comprehend the material presented. This is via essay/short answers.
I use multiple choice and matching. I make sure I review the exams each term and evaluate content. If I am using a test bank I will structure my lecture around the test questions, to make sure the content has been covered.
Hi Jeanie, Thanks for your post to the forum. Do you also look at the course objectives as you choose testing formats? Susan
Susan Polick
Typically, I decide on a test format based on what, precisely, I'm trying to get the student to do. Generally, I give essay tests because I'm trying to get the student to engage with a text that already exists. However, occasionally, my goal is simply that the student understand a text (The Odyssey, for example). In these cases, I use a multiple choice test with matching components (for example, with Greek names).
I select the testing formats by the type of students I have.
It depends on the subject matter and the class. I try to cover different formats with each test so I can accurately test their knowledge with a variety of ways of looking at the problem.
HI Raymond, Excellent example of progressive work with students! I especially like that you review their end product and also that they can be published in the newspaper!
Susan Polick
Hi Sherry, That class review of the labs is excellent! The feedback that student receive is essential.
Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
I'm in total agreement. Depending on the subject being taught, helps determine the type of questioning method to be used.
In my field where hands on is most important, skill application tests are usually most beneficial. Sometimes though, time or classroom/lab availability does not allow, so a combination of multiple choice, true-false, and completion seems to work best... with the majority being multiple choice.
I find this method works for me as well
More and more that I spent time in this field, I see that multiple choise test are the ideal tests that are put out there. Personally, I think that fill in the blanks are the best tests for students. Fill in means you really know the information in your head, not just being familliar with it and that is multiple choise. Choises are much easier than fill in.
