Type of Test
I think far more is gained from essay questions or demonstrations. Good teaching is a lot of work, we shouldn't shy away from that out of convenience.
Paul,
I agree, so is our program. I use multiple choice exams often. Depending on the course and subject matter, I use matching.
Hi Ryan, Thanks for your post to the forum. In most technical schools essays do work best in the general education classes, but sometimes, in classes like "customer support" they can also be effective. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
I don't think essays would do well in the technical school environment. The information is always definite and no amount of opinions(hypothesis) can change scientific theories. For example: having students do an essay on the reflection of the pros and cons of one thing isn't very helpful for someone not well experienced in their field.
Hi Paul, Thanks for your post to the forum. your assessment choices are very sensible. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
I understand the use of essay questions for more advanced classes, i.e., senior level courses. But in lower level courses, many times it's more about laying a foundation for other courses down the line.
Our program is highly technical, with a lot of acronyms for the students to learn. In that case, matching and multiple choice exams do a better job of reinforcing new terminology for students who may be just getting familiar with the material.
