Educator Edge: Constructing the Exam-Cons Exam

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this module, the focus is on constructing valid exam items, or questions, using standard item-writing conventions. The goal is to create questions that effectively assess students' competencies and knowledge, moving beyond memorization of random facts to more applicable, real-world knowledge.<br /><br />Key elements include:<br /><br />1. <strong>Item Construction:</strong> An item is not just a question; it can include scenarios, instructions, or ordering tasks. The item stem should be straightforward and avoid extraneous information. The distractors (incorrect responses) must be plausible but clearly incorrect, and the key (correct response) must be clearly correct. Avoid overlapping answers and non-exclusive choices.<br /><br />2. <strong>Clarity and Grammar:</strong> Ensure items are grammatically correct and the stem leads directly to the desired response. Avoid using personal pronouns or negative wording, which can confuse students. Use present tense to maintain consistency.<br /><br />3. <strong>Alternative Formats:</strong> Use different question formats such as multiple correct response, hotspot items, fill-in-the-blank, and matching to assess students' abilities beyond basic selection. These formats can provide more discrimination and cognitive engagement.<br /><br />4. <strong>Avoid Common Pitfalls:</strong> Be cautious of construct-irrelevant variance, where items inadvertently influence performance. Avoid trivial distractors that are obviously incorrect and ensure consistency in answer formats.<br /><br />5. <strong>Review and Revise:</strong> Regularly review and revise exam items for clarity and focus. Proofreading and peer reviews are crucial to maintaining quality and effectiveness in assessments. Avoid intentional trickery and ensure items reflect course objectives.<br /><br />The module emphasizes using exams to measure higher cognitive skills and align assessments with educational goals, fostering accountability and applicable knowledge in students.

Keywords

exam item construction

item-writing conventions

student assessment

real-world knowledge

item clarity

alternative question formats

construct-irrelevant variance

exam item review

higher cognitive skills

educational goals