Finding more effective ways to asses knowledge
I find it interesting that some students, and I was very much bias before, prefer to take essay exams as opposed to multiple choice. I used to dislike multiple choice exams until I found better approaches to them. However, I am much more of a fan of short answer with multiple choice. For me personally, I feel that it challenges their knowledge enough to not only have to remember terms and definitions but also have to apply it in short answers. Though I will say that online learning structures with multiple choice does allow for more time to be placed on grading assignments and for class preparation.
Different students with different learning styles may do better on one type of test than another. There are students with disabilities who cannot successfully pass a multiple choice test but could explain the concepts in an essay.
John, Yes, this particular method allows us more time to spend with our students, facilitating learning. When we are not buried in paperwork during office hours, our students get the sense that we actually have time for them.
Dr. Melissa Read
I agree that multiple choice allows foe more grading and therefore feedback from the instructor.
