Steps to Develop Assessment Tools

Sep 16, 2024

Developing Assessment Tools

Steps in Developing Assessment Tools

  1. Examine Instructional Objectives

    • Match test items with instructional objectives.
    • Ensure that test items reflect the learning outcomes.
  2. Make a Table of Specifications (ToS)

    • A ToS details content and cognitive levels of a test.
    • Important for addressing validity and reliability.
    • Steps for creating a ToS:
      • Select Learning Outcomes: Identify necessary instructional objectives.
      • Outline Subject Matter: Determine the scope and length of the test.
      • Decide on Number of Items per Subtopic:
        • Formula:

          Number of items = (Number of class sessions) x (Desired total number of items) / (Total number of class sessions)

    • Make a two-way chart to display topics and cognitive levels.
  3. Construct the Test Items

    • Follow general principles:
      • Ensure items correspond with learning outcomes.
      • Use multiple formats for ToS.
    • Example:
      • Specific objectives, cognitive level, type of test, ID number, total points.
    • Guidelines for constructing items:
      • Start writing items in advance for revisions.
      • Focus on essential content, avoiding trivia.
      • Ensure clarity and independence of items.
      • Include only one correct answer.
      • Avoid trick questions and direct textbook quotes.
      • Aim for higher-order thinking skills.
  4. Determine Number of Test Items

    • Average time for different item types:
      • True/False: 30 seconds
      • Multiple Choice: 60 seconds
      • Short Answer: 1-2 minutes
      • Matching: 30 seconds per response
      • Essay: 10-15 minutes
  5. Checklist for Constructing Test Items

    • Confirm item appropriateness to measure objectives.
    • Ensure clarity and effective format.
    • Group similar item types.
    • Allow sufficient time for students to complete the test.
    • Clear scoring guidelines.
  6. Assemble the Test Items

    • Steps in assembling:
      • Group items by format.
      • Arrange items from easy to difficult.
      • Ensure readability and proper spacing.
      • Include illustrations where necessary.
  7. Check Assembled Test Items

    • Proofread for typographical and grammatical errors.
    • Make necessary corrections.
  8. Make the Answer Keys

    • Ensure answers follow a random sequence.
    • Avoid predictable patterns in answer sequences.
  9. Analyze and Improve the Test Items

    • Conduct analysis after scoring and recording to identify improvement areas.

Conclusion

  • All steps are crucial for developing effective assessment tools that measure instructional objectives efficiently.
  • Thank you for listening!