Pedagogical colloqium

Title

Assessment with multiple choice questions in mathematics - is it possible?

Abstract

The presentation addresses multiple-choice questions or items, known as single best answer (SBA items) in the field of medicine compared to mathematics, and statistics. SBA items provide one correct answer among several options, assessing specific knowledge and skills. The discussion will include the advantages and disadvantages of SBA items compared to open free-text answers in relation to validity and reliability. 
Additionally, the principles for designing effective SBA questions will be outlined, focusing on aspects like clarity, context, and plausible distractors. Examples from math and statistics curricula from LTH will illustrate how SBA questions perform on learning outcomes and accommodate various course objectives. The use of SBA questions as a learning activity will also be explored. 
 

Speakers: 

Magnus Hillman is Senior lecturer and director at The Faculty of Medicine Centre for Teaching and Learning

Johan Agardh is  Educational developer at The Faculty of Medicine Centre for Teaching and Learning