Multiple+Choice

=**__Multiple Choice Questions__**= (Giovanni)

**//Definition//**
A multiple choice question is a form of assessment in which respondents are asked to select the best possible answer (or answers) out of the choices from a list. The multiple choice format is most frequently used in educational testing

**//Advantages//**

 * Multiple choice tests take less time to administer and are a strong predictor of a student's overall knowledge
 * objective assessment items
 * It is simply to grade and takes very little time.
 * Grades are consistent and tests are easily adaptable.

**// Disadvantages //**

 * There seems to be limited types of knowledge assessed by multiple choice
 * It is best designed for lower order skills, and it allows students to guess answers.
 * It is possible to create ambiguous questions, and students are not tested on all their knowledge
 * It takes a lot of time creating the exam, and you can run into problems thinking of plausible questions and answers.
 * It is difficult for students with learning difficulties to write multiple choice tests

**//Tips//**

 * There are two basic parts of a question: - The stem (problem) and the alternatives (the listed solutions)
 * Write questions with 5 options if possible, and the problem should be written in complete sentences
 * If placing a blank in a question, place it at the end of the question
 * Avoid negative questions, and making questions to wordy
 * Have the first few questions easy to calm and build confidence
 * Only one correct or obviously correct answer
 * Avoid none of the above and all of the above, and keep answers similar in length.

**//Considerations for identified students//**

 * More time
 * Including images/diagrams
 * Formulas
 * Extra workspace/scrap paper (on test)
 * Include guiding “hints”
 * Avoid using cultural context
 * Avoid using “if” and “would”—conditional word structures (ESL students)
 * Provide them with a “reader” for those with reading difficulties

//**Other Useful Information**//
Examples The _________ is attached to the small intestine a) the lung b) the throat c) the stomach d) all of the above
 * Poor Examples**

The small intestine ends at the____________ a) stomach b) large intestine c) throat d) lungs e) anus
 * Good Example**

**//Resources//**
Barth, J (2004). The Design and Use of Multiple Choice Tests. Retrieved from [|www.tss.uoguelph.ca/tli/tli04/presentations/jbarth.ppt]

Burton, S. Et al (1991). How to Prepare Better Multiple-Choice Test Items: Guidelines for University Faculty. Retrieved from: []

Murdock, J. (2006). Basic Tips for Writing Effective Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ’s): A Compilation of the Most Useful advice. Retrieved from: [|http://homes.chass.utoronto.ca/~murdockj/teaching/MCQ_basic_tips.pdf]

**Qaissaunee, M. (2009). 10 Tips for Creating Good Multiple Choice Questions. Retrieved from**: []