Computer Assisted Assessment CAA (also known as e-Assessment or automated assessment) has been broadly defined as the use of computers anywhere within the assessment process, including online delivery, online submission, electronic voting, computer controlled marking etc. Information Services provides a range of tools to support these processes.
Online testing is supported through the Questionmark Perception software. The advantages of online objective testing include:
- The ability to question the student right across the curriculum, addressing the full range of learning outcomes.
- Greater efficiency and reliability as a large number of papers can be marked quickly and consistently.
- The possibility of immediate and detailed feedback to students.
- More detailed and immediate analysis of student performance on each question enabling a greater fine tuning of assessment for future use.
CAA can be used for a number of different purposes:
- Diagnostic e.g. A series of readily accessible online tests with optional repeats, provision of feedback (essential) and further learning support material for students to use as necessary.
- Formative e.g. An informal series of tests throughout module to allow staff and students to gauge the level of student understanding of a topic. These test typically include feedback and the option to do further study and repeat.
- Formative-Summative e.g. A formal series of (in class) tests set at intervals during the module, contributing towards the final module mark. Students receive a mark and/or feedback following each test. This can encourage students to work throughout the module rather than leave their study to the final weeks. Test reports allow detailed analysis of student performance where required, allowing students and staff to identify areas of the curriculum that require further attention.
- Summative e.g. A formal on line examination, run under secure conditions, contributing to all or part of the final module mark.
Guidance for Writing Questions
- Constructing Written Test Questions For the Basic and Clinical Sciences, NBME.
- Practice Guide in Question and Test Design, (PDF, 1.6MB). Notes from the PASS-IT Project for Preparing Assessments in Scotland using IT.
Help and Advice
Contact CED (ced@qub.ac.uk) for further information.