Measuring understanding is notoriously difficult. Indeed, in formulating learning outcomes the word 'understanding' is usually avoided, but in the sciences, developing understanding is one of the main aims of instruction. Scientific knowledge is factual, having been tested against empirical observation and experimentation, but knowledge of facts…

While previous research has identified numerous factors that contribute to item difficulty, studies involving large-scale reading tests have provided mixed results. This study examined five selected-response item types used to measure reading comprehension in the Pearson Test of English Academic: a) multiple-choice (choose one answer), b)…

We present a novel application of a generalized item response tree model to investigate test takers' answer change behavior. The model allows us to simultaneously model the observed patterns of the initial and final responses after an answer change as a function of a set of latent traits and item parameters. The proposed application is illustrated…

This study aims to determine the Type I error rates and power of S[subscript 1] , S[subscript 2] indices and kappa statistic at detecting copying on multiple-choice tests under various conditions. It also aims to determine how copying groups are created in order to calculate how kappa statistics affect Type I error rates and power. In this study,…

Testing-assessment is needed to determine whether the education process is successful or at what level. For this reason, it is of great importance to determine the achievement level of the students at the secondary level. The purpose of this study is to develop an achievement test consisting of multiple choice questions about 'quadrilateral'…

Due to the complex and integrative nature of translation competence construct, its free of subjectivity assessment is considered quite a challenging task for modern translation pedagogy. The conducted literature review revealed diverse directions and opportunities to raise translation competence assessment objectivity. In this key, there is a need…

The quality of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) as well as the student's solve behavior in MCQs are educational concerns. MCQs cover wide educational content and can be immediately and accurately scored. However, many studies have found some flawed items in this exam type, thereby possibly resulting in misleading insights into students'…

This quasi-experimental study investigated the role of prior psychology knowledge and in-class retrieval activity in the testing effect. Undergraduate introductory psychology students (N = 53) from two classes at a small liberal arts college practiced retrieving information in class with multiple-choice quizzing and concept mapping. Prior…

Translational research--a bridge between research in more controlled settings and application in more complex contexts--is an essential step in developing effective evidence-based practices. Yet, it is rare. Previous lab-based research has recommended wakeful rest (WR)--a relaxed state of mind in the absence of activity--as a classroom…

In this study, a valid and reliable multiple-choice achievement test has been developed in order to measure the academic achievement of 8th grade students about the units of "States of Matter and Heat" and "Electricity in Our Life". The pilot study of the achievement test was carried out with 30 questions which were prepared…

Self-efficacy, the system of beliefs that individuals possess which enables them to exercise control and actions when faced with a specific task, is an essential component to language learning, as it has the potential to promote the self-regulatory capacity required for successful language acquisition and performance. One way in which…

Researches worldwide have so far provided weighty testimony to the fact that reciprocal teaching produces better efficacy in terms of imparting education including teaching the four skills of a language. On this consideration, the current study seeks to explore if reciprocal teaching enhances the extent of reading skill among undergraduate…

This study aimed to develop a learning progression (LP) for botanical literacy and assess the impact of a garden-based education course on Thai pre-service science teachers (n = 49). The inquiry- and community-based education course was taught over a 15-week period. To measure botanical literacy, a 50-item multiple-choice test was employed. A…

Studies from various disciplines have reported that spatial location of options in relation to processing order impacts the ultimate choice of the option. A large number of studies have found a primacy effect, that is, the tendency to prefer the first option. In this paper we report on evidence that position of the key in four-option…

While generating multiple-choice questions has been shown to promote deep learning, students often fail to realize this benefit and do not willingly participate in this activity. Additionally, the quality of the student-generated questions may be influenced by both their level of engagement and familiarity with the learning materials. Towards…