Multiple-choice items, constructed-response questions, and performance tasks yield different kinds of information about student learning. A better understanding of these test item types and how students respond to them can yield a deeper understanding of students’ capabilities and instructional needs. The result is better instructional decision making and higher student achievement.
In this lesson you will be introduced to:
- how multiple-choice, constructed-response, and performance tasks work;
- how students respond to different test item types and the implications for test reliability and validity;
- when and why to use different test item types;
- suggestions for teachers to improve their test creation; and,
- recommended activities and resources to deepen your understanding and use of different test item types.
Suggested Resources
- Item Types and Cognitive Complexity Models in Higher Education (Scantron)
- Classroom Assessment: Supporting Teaching and Learning in Real Classrooms by Catherine Taylor and Susan Nolen (Pearson)
- Educational Assessment of Students by Susan Brookhart and Anthony Nitko (Pearson)
Lesson Supplements
- Facilitator Guide to help you build the capacity of others using this video lesson.