Multiple-Choice Questions with an Option to Comment: Student Attitudes and Use
- 1 December 1986
- journal article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Teaching of Psychology
- Vol. 13 (4) , 196-199
- https://doi.org/10.1207/s15328023top1304_6
Abstract
Introductory Psychology students were graded on four tests using multiple-choice questions with an explicit option to explain their answers (E-option), and were later asked how they would compare this format with short answer, essay, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and regular multiple-choice. Students rated the E-option and short-answer formats as most preferred, and less frustrating and anxiety producing than other formats (p < .05). Of 416 students, 173 used the E-option, averaging less than one explanation per test over the four tests. During the course, only 30 points were gained and 5 points lost due to E-option use. The E-option seems to be an efficient and humane technique for testing large classes.Keywords
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