Writing High-Quality Test Questions
Workshop
 

Duration

6 hours (full day or two half-days)

Synopsis

Participants learn strategies for writing test questions in the multiple-choice format (MCQs) including scenario-based and case-cluster questions (i.e., several questions linked to a single case scenario). Participants complete a multiple-choice examination and then work in teams to critique the test questions and identify test construction problems based on guidelines introduced in the workshop. Participants also learn how to use test blueprints for creating objective tests that measure several levels of comprehension and different types of objectives. The information that can be derived from a statistical analysis of a test (item analysis) is reviewed with emphasis on how these data can help identify poor quality test items. Different test item formats are demonstrated including case-based questions and case-cluster questions. Participants conclude the workshop by writing case-based questions. Strategies for writing short answer essay questions and matching items are also demonstrated.

   
 

Objectives

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

-         Describe the benefits of using a test blueprint to plan objective tests.

-         Identify best practices and red flags for writing MCQs.

-         Analyze multiple choice questions, and identify common test construction errors.

-         Write scenario-based and case-cluster MCQs.

-         Describe the benefits of conducting a statistical analysis of test reliability, and review red flags that identify a potentially low quality question.

If you would like additional information or would like to schedule this workshop at your institution, please contact the Academy for Academic Leadership.
 

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