A numerical question is a closed question type in (digital) assessment that you can use to test specific, numerical knowledge. What are the unique characteristics of this question type, and what are its advantages and disadvantages?
A numerical question is a question that requires the candidate to give a specific number as the answer. In this closed question type, the candidate answers in the form of a number. Some application examples include calculating mortgage interest, sales tax, or net income.
Good digital testing software offers an integrated calculator within the test. This way, the candidate does not have to bring his calculator to the exam, which reduces the risk of exam fraud.
An example of a numerical question is as follows:
Question: What was Joe Biden’s age when he became president of the United States on 20 January 2021?
Correct answer: 78 years old
Point scoring – right-fail principle or tolerance?
It is essential to think about point allocation in this form of test. You can opt for a right-or-fail principle. The candidate only gets the points if he or she answers the question correctly. It is also possible to set a tolerance. Various options are available (e.g., +/-1 or +/- 5 years).
A numeric question is very suitable in some cases. We outline below some of the advantages of this test question.
There are some tips you can keep in mind if you want to use numerical questions within your (digital) test.
The numerical question is vital in today’s (digital) testing landscape. Convenient tools such as built-in calculators ensure that candidates can fully concentrate on the test. However, developing a numerical question does require the necessary test expert knowledge. Want more information on this? Optimum Assessment is your partner in digital assessment.
Optimum Assessment is your partner in digital assessment. We help you get started with a complete package of services. We support you through the entire testing process, whether it is the implementation of the software, the optimization of your testing process or the development of an item bank.
To find out more about Optimum Assessment’s (support) services, contact us directly. We are always happy to help you find a solution!