Types of Educational Tests

Definition

• A test is a set of questions, problems, or exercises designed to assess a person's knowledge, skills, or abilities.

Types of Tests

• Formative Tests: Used to evaluate student progress and understanding during a course or project.
• Summative Tests: Used to evaluate student learning at the end of a course or project.
• Diagnostic Tests: Used to identify strengths, weaknesses, and knowledge gaps.
• Placement Tests: Used to determine a student's level of proficiency or readiness for a course.

Test Characteristics

• Validity: The extent to which a test measures what it claims to measure.
• Reliability: The consistency of test results over time.
• Objectivity: The degree to which test results are free from bias.

Test Administration

• Proctored Tests: Administered in a controlled environment, often with a supervisor present.
• Unproctored Tests: Taken independently, without supervision.
• Timed Tests: Completed within a set time frame.
• Untimed Tests: No time limit for completion.

Definition of a Test

• A test is a set of questions, problems, or exercises designed to assess a person's knowledge, skills, or abilities.

Types of Tests

• Formative Tests: Used to evaluate student progress and understanding during a course or project, providing ongoing feedback to improve learning.
• Summative Tests: Used to evaluate student learning at the end of a course or project, measuring achievement of learning objectives.
• Diagnostic Tests: Used to identify strengths, weaknesses, and knowledge gaps, informing instruction and targeted support.
• Placement Tests: Used to determine a student's level of proficiency or readiness for a course, guiding decisions about course placement and instruction.

Test Characteristics

• Validity: The extent to which a test measures what it claims to measure, ensuring that the test accurately assesses the intended knowledge or skills.
• Reliability: The consistency of test results over time, ensuring that the test produces similar results when administered repeatedly.
• Objectivity: The degree to which test results are free from bias, ensuring that the test is impartial and fair.

Test Administration

• Proctored Tests: Administered in a controlled environment, often with a supervisor present, to maintain the integrity of the testing process.
• Unproctored Tests: Taken independently, without supervision, allowing for greater flexibility and autonomy.
• Timed Tests: Completed within a set time frame, assessing the ability to work efficiently and manage time effectively.
• Untimed Tests: No time limit for completion, allowing students to work at their own pace and reducing time-related anxiety.