Depending on the subject matter that I am teaching will definitely depict the information or criteria that I will use. When teach A&P I preferr to use repetition and also diagrams.
I use a variety of formats--multiple choice, t/f, short answer, completion, and essay. In my U.S. History class, I think that keeping a variety of formats in each test is important because I can assess both fact-knowledge and critical thinking skills.
I like to create tests that show what the student knows rather than what they make on the test. Yes the score is important; however, I want them to leave my class knowing information and putting in practical situations. For instance, in my Foundations class, most students are reluctant to take this class (even though they have no choice)since it reminds them of an elementary school class. At the beginning of the class I give them a goal to strive for in their writing. I let them know that the final exam is interviewing a staff member and writing the article. They have to use the knowledge of punctuation, grammar, parts of speech, sentence structure within the article. Before turning it in, I advise them if any of their sentences needs correction. We talk about what we went over in class and where they can find it in the book. If they pass, I place their article in the school newspaper. This is an article they created using the information learned in class. They are not only proud of their work, they tell other students what they learned in the class.
I teach lab classes and utilize practicums to test students on what they need to know about equipment being used for different procedures i.e., parts of a syringe, various respiratory devices, or ECG machine. Students rotate through stations and identify the items in question. After everyone has finished and the grades have been calculated then collectively we review the results. This is just one example of an assessment for a lab class.
The type of content and the level of learning defined by the learning objectives determines the best formats for testing. Testing for knowledge or recall requires different types of testing than that for application or synthesis of material. As stated in this unit, mutiple choice formats are applicable across a broad range of content and skill levels.
Testing formats are based on skill level and prior experience.
I will generally start with the standardized test created for use with the textbook. I then will exclude the questions I don't feel are relevant. I then add my own case study questions that require the students to supply short answers. I also test over specific diagrams and/or instrumentation discussed in the content.
I use what is appropriate for the course that I am teaching. When teaching Medical Terminology, I most times use both matching and multiple choice. When teaching Medical Coding, I mainly use multiple choice using their coding manuals because the student still must research the correct answer, resulting in knowledge of application in using their manuals.
I am also using test questions from a test bank, however, I am often editing and reviewing them. I am predominantly using multiple choice and true/false questions. For some particular chapters, such as human anatomy, I do use matching question.
I look at what are the course objectives, and how can the students be evaluated on if they have achieved those objectives. I often use a blend of testing formats, Matching, Short Answer, and Essay.
Well, it depends on the course taught. Teaching a course where a skill must be learned, I like to use Multiple Choice, essay questions, and T/F for the beginning and midway of a course, then a skill applications test for the Final Exam. In order to successfully pass the skill application test, the student must bring together all of the knowledge they have learned from the first day of class.
I typically use a mixed format based on the information being tested. I will use multiple choice, true false and matching tests for technical information; fill in the blank, short answer and essay for nontechnical material and skill application types for lab work. There are always situations where the above test types can be applied successfully when material types permit.
Flexibility is the key.
Also by varying the types of questions used in a test and mixing them in small groups, it prevents detection of any inadvertant patterns that may develop. I think that this also helps prevent the student from proceeding too quickly by only partially reading the questions.
My students actually prefer this type.
Hi Cynthia, Thanks for your post to the forum. From your description, you are using a good mix of assessment types. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
During a hands on class, I prefer to use the "fill-in-the-blank" method and also matching with no word bank. It tests the students knowledge and also reminds them that the real world isn't always calm and relaxed.
Typically, it would depend upon the course. After the first two assessments, I would review the testing format to enusre that it is meeting the needs of the students and that I am seeing the desired results. If changes are needed at this point, another testing format would be used.
It depends on the class and the course content. I also have to evaluate my student's cognitive abilites to determine what types of tests should be administered.
My Dental Assistant students need time with the subject matter. I give books, power point presentations, Hands on as while as other information to the class. Vocabulary and other test are in relationship to these classroom asignments. We have used all of the test formats and have had some good and some bad. So always looking for great idea.
I consider the type of information that is tested over. I want to see the students perspective and understanding from various angels. I very rarely give a test with one type of format. Students might not be pleased with this because they want M/C all the time, but I remind them that their degree says they are knowledgeable of their field. In addition, there is no M/C in a hospital setting.
Hi Brooke, Thanks for your post to the forum. Application/Skill testing is essential in many programs. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
