Multiple-choice questions in (digital) testing: what are they and how do you use them? There are all kinds of question types to choose from in (digital) testing. One example is multiple-choice questions. How do multiple-choice questions differ from other question types? And what are some possible applications and examples? What is a multiple-choice question? A multiple-choice question is a closed question type where the candidate must choose from a series of answer options that have been determined in advance. The unique feature of multiple-choice questions is that they can be included in a text fragment. The candidate can choose the correct answers from various pull-down menus. This is an excellent way to evaluate the candidate's knowledge. A good example that can be measured excellently using a multiple-choice question is Dutch language skills, as you can easily place different sentence constructions in sequence that are interrelated. Example and score distribution of a multiple-choice question An example of a multiple-choice question is shown below: Question Optimum Assessment is your partner in digital testing. The organisation has an office in [Selection list 1] and has a testing platform called [Selection list 2]. This platform consists of [Selection list 3] modules. Answer options could include: Selection list 1: Oisterwijk Oosterhout Ostend Selection list 2: Optimum Platform Optimum Assessment Platform Optimum Test Platform Selection list 3: 1 5 9 Score distribution: One possible scoring system is that a correct answer in a multiple-choice list is worth 1 point. In that case, the candidate can earn 3 points in the above question. Advantages of multiple-choice questions Quick assessmentThe answers to multiple-choice questions are predetermined. Digital assessment software enables you to evaluate these results quickly and in a fully automated manner. Objective assessmentMultiple-choice questions offer a closed, objective method of assessment. This is because there is no interpretation by the assessor. Please note that the answer options should be determined by subject matter experts. Read also: how to create a good test?. Easy to complete: Multiple-choice questions are very clear for the candidate. The question is presented and only one answer needs to be selected from the given answer options. Flexible knowledge testing: Multiple-choice questions can be used in various ways. Consider a question in the middle of a sentence. By using the right question types, you can ensure an optimal testing experience. Disadvantages of multiple-choice questions A multiple-choice question naturally also has its disadvantages for the testing organisation. Here are a few: More difficult to constructA multiple-choice question often consists of several questions that are asked consecutively in a short text fragment. This means that the questions may be interdependent or even overlap. This requires the correct technical knowledge to shape this correctly. Not suitable for every test: Multiple-choice questions are usually aimed at establishing factual knowledge. They offer less insight into more complex concepts and processes. Use these, for example, open question types for. Limited response options: Multiple-choice questions have only a limited number of predetermined answer options. Tips for drafting multiple-choice questions There are a number of guidelines you can keep in mind when drafting multiple-choice questions. Only use the multiple-choice question if it really adds something to your (digital) test. Otherwise, it is better to use the more common multiple choice question. Provide neutral and objective answer options. Use supporting images and video material to make the question and test more appealing to the candidate. Conclusion – multiple-choice questions in (digital) testing The multiple-choice question offers a powerful additional option for measuring candidates' knowledge. What makes this question type unique is that you can incorporate it into an (existing) text fragment. This can provide unique added value when it comes to gaining insight into certain types of knowledge. However, in many cases other question types are also suitable for this purpose, so make sure you choose the right one. Do you have any questions? Our assessment consultants will be happy to help you achieve the best possible assessment experience. Are you looking for a total package for digital assessment? Read more about Optimum Assessment Platform.
