Matching matrix question within digital assessment
Have you ever read or heard of the matching-matrix question? It is a question type used in test and exam preparation to assess candidates’ knowledge and skills. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the matching-matrix question, what it is, how to use it and its advantages and disadvantages.
What is a matching-matrix question?
A matching-matrix question is one in which candidates must make multiple choices and match them with the correct answers in a matrix. It is a challenging question that forces the candidate to apply knowledge at a deeper level. Unlike a traditional matching question, where the answers are in a list, in a matching-matrix question candidates must find the right combination of the correct answer and the correct choice themselves. This question can be used to test different types of knowledge and skills, such as applying concepts, recognizing patterns and making analyses.
Example and score distribution of a matching-matrix question?
Below is an example of a matching-matrix question:
Which country belongs to which capital city?
Countries:
- France
- Germany
- Italy
Capitals:
- Rome
- Paris
- Berlin
In this example, candidates must match the countries with the correct capitals. For example, France match Paris. For each correct match, the candidate receives one point.
What are the benefits?
A matching-matrix question has several advantages over other question types:
- Testing deeper understanding of lesson material – A matching-matrix question tests candidates’ deeper understanding. Thus, one must not only choose the right answers, but also match them with the right choices. This requires a deeper level of knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.
- Test application of knowledge – This question type tests not only whether candidates have understood the knowledge, but also whether they can apply it. Thus, candidates must use the knowledge gained to find the right combination of answers and choices.
- Efficient knowledge measurement – A matching-matrix question is an efficient way to test knowledge and skills. It combines more different parts of the learning, so it takes less time to other than open-ended question types, for example.
- Automatic assessment – as with other closed question types, the appropriate assessment software can automatically assess this question type.
What are the drawbacks?
In addition to advantages, there are also disadvantages to using a matching-matrix question:
- Limited applicability – This question type is not appropriate for every subject or level. It can be difficult to create a matrix appropriate for each subject and level.
- Ability to guess – In some cases, candidates can guess the answers by eliminating the choices to find the correct combination. This may reduce the validity of the question. This does not only apply to this question type, of course.
- Limited feedback opportunities – the question type provides limited feedback to candidates. If someone did not answer the question correctly, they do not know where the mistake was made and what needs to be corrected.
Tips for creating a matching-matrix question
Creating a good matching-matrix question requires some planning and preparation. Below are some tips to help you prepare this question type:
- Define the purpose and topic of the question – Before you begin drafting the question, you should clearly know what you want to test. Define the purpose and topic of the question and consider what knowledge and skills you want to find out.
- List the choices and answers – List the choices and answers you want to use in the question. Make sure the number of choices matches and there are as many choices as answers.
- Make the question and choices clear – Make sure the question and choices are as clear as possible and the candidate understands what is expected of them.
- Check the question – Check the question to make sure the question is not too difficult or too easy.
Conclusion: the matching-matrix question in digital tests
The matching-matrix question is a challenging and efficient way to test candidates’ knowledge and skills. It is important to know what you want to test and what choices and answers you want to use when creating the question. In addition to the advantages, there are also disadvantages, such as limited applicability and the possibility of guessing. If you keep these drawbacks in mind and follow the tips when creating the question, you can create an effective and valid matching-matrix question for your digital test! Do you need help with this? Optimum Assessment is your partner in digital assessment. Meet our support services.