Multiple Choice VS Multiple Methods

When comparing traditional tests versus their non-traditional counterpart questions of validity and even objectivity may be raised. Today I will evaluate the arguments for tests being the “only” objective assessments of student learning and the arguments against that school of thought. I will conclude with my own thoughts on the matter.

The one true test

Traditional tests and test questions are time tested as being fair and measurable. They give educators the clear and concise data necessary to compare learners and their growth. These assessments are aligned to standards and indicators and are presented in formats that students are familiar and comfortable with. This comfort increases students’ confidence and thus achievement. The following are examples of traditional question formats and the reason for their continued use. 

• True/False- quickly answered and scored, allows for struggling readers to answer easily
• Multiple Choice- allows for a wide variety of content coverage, easy to score
• Matching- provides formative data particularly for lower level students
• Fill in the Blanks- challenges the learner to use deductive reasoning

Valuable validation

“Non-traditional” assessments can be measurable if formatted correctly. With the implementation of these assessment types it is very important that the educator also design a fair and reliable scoring method. Such a tool is quite easily incorporated with a rubric. Rubrics can be designed easily by the instructor or with help from teacher websites like RubiStar. The following are quality assessments of student learning that also encourage higher level thinking skills.

• Project Based Learning- students work to find the answer to a complex question of experiment and thereby gain new knowledge
• Experiments- students use inquiry based learning to lead their discovery of new learning
• Reflections/journal- provide the opportunity to observe the student learn/grow rather then a summative assessment
• Portfolios- allow students to professionally showcase their mastery, research, reflection and creativity

Just a thought

As a business educator I am a firm believer in PBL. I do not believe that a multiple-choice test could ever show more mastery of a business concept then actually creating a product would. I do believe that there is a place in the field of education for these tests however it is not my preference. Thank you for reading and happy surfing!