Student and Staff Perceptions of the Use of Multiple Choice Testing in Higher Education Assessments

Penny, Kay I; Brodie, Jacqueline

Abstract

Multiple choice questions (MCQs) are commonly used in higher education assessments and their use has increased alongside the availability of information and computer technology (ICT). MCQs are often considered an option to help deal with increasing numbers of students on distance learning and work-based learning. This study explores the perceptions of both lecturing staff and students on the use of MCQs in a higher education establishment in the UK. The survey findings indicate that, both academic staff and students tend to have a negative attitude towards the use of MCQs in higher education, although it was noted that MCQs may have a place in assessing knowledge. A recommendation of the research is that more time and resources should be invested to develop well–designed MCQs as a tool for providing formative feedback to students. Also, the use of ICT in distance or work-based learning may provide an effective means of assessing a diverse range of learners.

Citation

Penny, K. I., & Brodie, J. (2017). Student and Staff Perceptions of the Use of Multiple Choice Testing in Higher Education Assessments. International Journal of Education and Culture, 6(2), 17-26

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 4, 2017
• Publication Date: 2017-06
• Deposit Date: Feb 13, 2017
• Journal: International Journal of Education and Culture
• Print ISSN: 2168-9407
• Publisher: Untested IDeas Research Center
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 6
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 17-26
• Keywords: Multiple choice questions, MCQs, educational assessments, ICT,
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/684306