Module 12: Construction of Multiple-choice Tests
Before the test is given
After a test is constructed, the instructor should administer it to at least
one individual who will attempt to respond to each question. A test question
which may seem perfectly clear to the instructor who wrote it could be terribly
confusing to the student attempting to respond to it. A number of things can
go wrong during test construction:
- Use of vocabulary that is unfamiliar to students
- Confusing examples embedded in questions
- Simple errors in item writing
A preliminary evaluation of the test items could save many anxious moments
for students, wasted time for students and instructor, and invalid results
of testing. Having another individual go over the test before administering
it could help in pointing out simple errors or finding weaknesses in the test
that could be corrected prior to the actual administration of the test to its
intended audience.
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