Many national science frameworks (e.g., Next Generation Science Standards) argue that developing mathematical modeling competencies is critical for students' deep understanding of science. However, science teachers may be unprepared to assess these competencies. We are addressing this need by developing virtual lab performance assessments that…

In this study, the effects of redesigned modeling activities on the academic achievement of 7th grade students and the student's view about these activities were investigated. We use explanatory sequential mixed method design that is one of the mixed research methodology for this investigation. The quantitative part of this research established…

The subject of the research is to build methodologies to evaluate the student knowledge by testing. The author points to the importance of feedback about the mastering level in the learning process. Testing is considered as a tool. The object of the study is to create the test system models for defence practice problems. Special attention is paid…

In this paper, we introduce a mathematical model for collaborative learning and the answering process for multiple-choice questions. The collaborative learning model is inspired by the Ising spin model and the model for answering multiple-choice questions is based on their difficulty level. An intensive simulation study predicts the possibility of…

Samejima hypothesized that non-monotonically increasing item response functions (IRFs) of ability might occur for multiple-choice items (referred to here as "Samejima items") if low ability test takers with some, though incomplete, knowledge or skill are drawn to a particularly attractive distractor, while very low ability test takers…

The purpose of this study is implementation of a structured inquiry learning model in instruction of geometry. The model used is a model with a quasi-experimental study amounted to two classes of samples selected from the population of the ten classes with cluster random sampling technique. Data collection tool consists of a test item…

A formal framework is presented for determining which of the distractors of multiple-choice test items has a small probability of being chosen by a typical examinee. The framework is based on a procedure similar to an indifference zone formulation of a ranking and election problem. (Author/BW)

A necessary and sufficient condition for a perfectly homogeneous test in the sense of Loevinger is stated and proved. Using this result, a formula for computing the maximum possible KR-20 when the test variance is assumed fixed is presented. A new index of test homogeneity is also presented and discussed. (Author/BW)

The magnitude of statistical bias for the phi-coefficient was investigated, using computer simulated examinations in which all the students had equal knowledge. Several modifications of phi were tested, but when applied to real examinations, none succeeded in improving its reproducibility when items are re-used on equivalent student groups.…

In Guttman-type quantification of contingency tables and multiple-choice data (incidence data), the trivial solution because of marginal constraints is typically removed before quantification. Relevant formulas are presented for cases affected by the trivial solution and those that are not. (SLD)

This study formulates a property of a quantification method, the principle of equivalent partitioning. When used with Guttman's principle of internal consistency, the combination allows the analysis of correlational data in terms of the variate(s) chosen by the investigator. Applications to multiple-choice, rank-order, and paired comparison data…

Results in the engineering literature on "k out of n system reliability" can be used to characterize tests based on estimates of the probability of correctly determining whether the examinee knows the correct response. In particular, the minimum number of distractors required for multiple-choice tests can be empirically determined.…

In this research paper we discuss how some multiple-choice questions may be used to improve understanding, to develop and to assess modelling capabilities and as an aid to teaching.

This paper attempts to provide some initial information about the use of a variety of item response theory (IRT) models in the item selection process; its purpose is to compare the information curves derived from the selection of items characterized by several different IRT models and their associated parameter estimation programs. These…