Multiple-choice question in digital testing The use of different types of questions has become an integral part of the world of testing and examination. One of the most commonly used question types is the multiple-choice question. But what exactly are these questions and what are their key characteristics? What is a multiple-choice question? A fill-in-the-blank question is a type of question in which the candidate is asked to complete an incomplete sentence or calculation and fill in the missing part. There is a difference between a single-answer question and its multiple counterpart. With the latter option, the candidate must enter an answer in multiple input fields. This can be useful for asking multiple questions about a short piece of text. Example and score distribution of a multiple-choice question ExampleThe First World War began in ___ and ended in ____. Answer options: For this type of question, the candidate must know both the start and end years of the First World War. Scoring: For the fill-in-the-blank question above, you can choose to award one point for each correct answer. If one of the two answers is incorrect, only one point can be earned. Advantages of a multiple-choice question There are a number of advantages that this type of question has in the field of digital assessment: Assess various knowledge and skillsBy using multiple-choice questions, you can assess a wide range of knowledge and skills. This is because multiple answer choices are provided, forcing candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of certain topics. Quick and easy to useMultiple-choice questions can be answered quickly and easily. Candidates can answer the questions within a limited space on their screen, which enhances the user-friendliness of the digital test. Flexible question type: Multiple-choice questions can be used in various subject areas and can be adapted to different learning objectives and learning outcomes. This makes it a flexible question type that can be adapted to the specific needs of the testing organisation. Disadvantages of a multiple-choice question What are the disadvantages you need to take into account when using a multiple-choice question in a digital test? Limited information: In multiple-choice questions, candidates answer questions on very specific parts of the course material. The questions often focus on facts and terminology. This can lead to a superficial assessment of knowledge, skills and understanding of a particular subject. Therefore, vary your use of different (closed) question types! Incorrect answersThis type of question carries the risk that the candidate may accidentally give an incorrect answer. Typing errors or spelling mistakes may be the cause of this and may negatively affect the assessment of the test. Technical knowledge required: Using multiple-choice questions, you can link different parts of the course material and present them to the candidate as questions. However, it requires some testing expertise to make the right connections within the course material and to formulate the questions correctly. Tips for creating a multiple-choice question Be clear about the desired responsesEnsure that the candidate understands what is expected of them in the question. Is it a short answer? Or a number? Add images: Add images to the digital test. This can help to make the question more appealing and to improve understanding of the content. Consider level and skillsIt is tempting to get the most out of digital assessment software. However, always keep the purpose of the assessment and the candidate's level in mind! Conclusion: multiple-choice questions in digital tests The multiple-choice question allows you to assess a wide range of topics and concepts. However, make sure you use the question to take your test to the next level and that it really adds value to your test. Would you like to know more about the possibilities it offers? Optimum Assessment Platform offers in terms of question types? Please contact us.
