Presents a study involving three sections of pre-calculus (n=181) at four-year college where partial credit scoring on multiple-choice questions was examined over an entire semester. Indicates that grades determined by partial credit scoring seemed more reflective of both the quantity and quality of student knowledge than grades determined by…

A technique is described for reducing the incidence of cheating on multiple choice exams. One form of the test is used and each item is assigned multiple numbers. Depending upon the instructions given to the class, some students will use the first of each pair of numbers to determine where to place their responses on a separate answer sheet, while…

Procedures for generating multiple-choice exams in psychology using the Apple IIe computer and the Applewriter II text editing software are described. The model is simple to use and provides flexibility in sequencing the choice of items from an instructor generated pool. (Author/RM)

The definition, nature, limitations, and strengths of multiple-choice test items are reviewed; and recommendations on the development and use of such items are presented. Many teacher-made multiple-choice tests can be significantly improved. Suggestions for layout organization and an interpretive approach to relationships among items on one test…

Discusses effects of test question order on student performance. Addresses (1) differences in the distribution of scores on each form of the examination; (2) effects on the validity of individual examination items; and (3) effects on the reliability of the examination instrument. Concludes that distribution of examination scores may be influenced…

Nonrestricted-answer, multiple-choice test items are recommended as a way of including more facts and fewer incorrect answers in test items, and they do not cue successful guessing as restricted multiple choice items can. Examination construction, scoring, and reliability are discussed. (MSE)

Compared are two approaches to exam writing in which the narrative approach is described as a novel, creative, and integrated learning opportunity. In this approach, a single system is chosen in which questions are asked that challenge the student to perceive interrelationships between principles and details previously learned. (CS)

Presented are common words and phrases which are encountered in the statistical analysis of test results. Included are analysis of the mid-point, distribution of scores, calculation of scaled scores, test reliability, item analysis, and coefficients of reliability. (CS)

Described is an instrument for assessing science/technology/society (STS) literacy developed for a STS course. The interactive character of key science concepts used by various scientists, engineers, humanists, and social scientists lecturing in the course is emphasized. A copy of the exam and an STS literacy dictionary are included. (KR)

Within the next two decades, calculators will be standard tools in mathematics classrooms. They should be used regularly but carefully in classroom instruction and testing to allow use of realistic data and exploration of mathematical concepts, but not to allow finding the answer without understanding the question. (MSE)

Described is an approach that substantially reduces the annotated shortcomings of standard multiple-choice tests presented to lower-division college mathematics and statistics classes. Examples are included from each discipline. (JJK)

Three professors share techniques for helping students focus on assessments required in classes. Charts are used to show students the specific concepts, principles, and problems that will be included on multiple-choice tests; rubrics developed for assigned work are used to increase student expectations and direct their explorations; and negotiated…

Student knowledge in a subject area prior to and after instruction has traditionally been assessed by administering a pre- and post-test, usually multiple choice, though recent studies criticize the use of even the best-constructed multiple choice tests. This study assessed college freshmen's knowledge before and after a laboratory experience in…

Compiled by the Wisconsin Association of Academic Librarians' (WAAL) Education and Library Use Committee, the Test of Minimum Library Use Skills provides examples of questions which may be used to assess students' knowledge of the 13 minimum library use skills adapted by the WAAL membership in 1983. The 59 multiple choice questions that make up…

Explains how multiple choice test items can be devised to measure higher-order learning, including engineering problem solving. Discusses the value and information provided in item analysis procedures with machine-scored tests. Suggests elements to consider in test design. (ML)