Single-answer fill-in-the-blank question in digital assessment Digital testing offers a wide range of question types, including single-answer fill-in-the-blank questions. But what exactly is this type of question? In this blog article, you will discover everything you need to know about single-answer fill-in-the-blank questions and learn how to use them effectively. What is a single-answer fill-in-the-blank question? A single-answer question is a question where the candidate must fill in a single word, number or symbol as the answer. This type of question is often used to test factual knowledge or understanding of basic concepts. In contrast to, for example, a multiple choice question, the answer is not listed among the answer options. The fill-in-the-blank question in which the candidate is asked to provide multiple answers is the multiple-choice question. Example and score distribution for a single fill-in question ExampleWhat is the chemical formula for water? AnswerFor this question, the candidate must provide the correct answer in the form of a chemical formula. There is only one correct answer, namely H₂O. Scoring: For the above single-answer question, an appropriate scoring system would be to award one point for a correct answer and zero points for an incorrect or incomplete answer. If a candidate gives the correct answer, H2O, the question is marked with one point. If a candidate gives a different answer, such as H3O, they receive zero points. Advantages of a single-answer question There are a number of advantages that the single-answer question has in terms of digital assessment: Objective assessment: Since there is only one correct answer, the more objective assessment and less subjective than with open questions. Time-saving: Checking single-answer fill-in-the-blank questions can be automated quickly and easily, saving you time in test analysis. Immediate feedback: Because the answer can be checked immediately, the candidate can receive instant feedback on his or her answer. If it concerns a formative assessmentThen the candidate can immediately correct his or her mistake to get the answer right. Testing factual knowledgeSingle-answer fill-in-the-blank questions are ideal for testing factual knowledge. With this type of question, the candidate only needs to provide one correct answer. Disadvantages of a single-answer question Of course, there are also a number of disadvantages to using this type of question. Some of these disadvantages are as follows: No insight into level of understanding: This type of question does not provide insight into the candidate's level of understanding, as it only tests factual knowledge. It is therefore important to combine these questions with other types of questions. No room for creativity: Single-answer fill-in-the-blank questions do not allow for creativity, making them less suitable for testing certain skills or knowledge. Incorrect answers: Candidates may accidentally give incorrect answers as a result of typing errors, spelling mistakes or other carelessness. This may affect the assessment of the test.. Tips for creating a single-answer fill-in-the-blank question Be clear and unambiguous: Formulate the question as clearly and unambiguously as possible. Ensure that there is only one correct answer and that the question cannot be interpreted in different ways by the candidates. Avoid ambiguityAvoid ambiguous questions and answers to prevent confusion. Clearly state what is expected of the candidate and avoid vagueness or ambiguity. Ensure a good balance between difficulty and relevance.: Ask questions at different levels and ensure that the question is relevant to the test. Make use of formative assessment: Let candidates practise with simple fill-in-the-blank questions and provide immediate feedback. formative feedback on their answers. Conclusion: the single-answer fill-in-the-blank question in digital tests The single-answer fill-in-the-blank question is a question type in digital testing that offers many advantages. To use this question type effectively, it is important to formulate clear and unambiguous questions and to take potential pitfalls into account. By combining single-answer fill-in-the-blank questions with other question types, you can create a ultimate testing experience concerns. Would you like more information about digital testing? Our technical experts We are here for you!
