Existing online tests and assessment tools (usually found as extended features in Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as BlackBoard) are confined to simplistic testing methods. For example, the question formats available for tutors to choose from are commonplace multiple choice, true/false and short answer questions. Surprisingly, there is only one way to grade the answers to these questions: That is through string-matching the students’ responses to a database of acceptable answers. There is no built-in intelligence to dynamically compute and evaluate the students’ responses.

Advanced Methods for Online Assessment

16 May 2006

Nanyang Technological University, Centre for Education Development

 

About the Seminar

Online tests and assessment has moved beyond these basic levels and into a realm of more robust, intensive testing. At present, LMS systems are not able to achieve this because they lack an efficient test engine to facilitate this.

 

Maple T.A., derived from the legendary Maple software, is ideal for placement testing, homework delivery, drill and practice, exam questions and assignments, high stakes testing, standards and gateway testing, and “just in time” teaching. A web-based testing and assessment system, Maple T.A. supports complex, free-form entry and intelligent evaluation of responses, making this system ideal for any Maths-based or Science-based course. Examples of such courses include:

 

• Engineering                                                

• Physics

• Chemistry                                                                       

• Biology

• Mathematics

• Computing

• Business

• Economics

 

It is equipped to support all forms of Mathematical and Scientific symbols, diagrams and expressions. Question formats are advanced in nature, which allows students to freely express their answers in more meaningful ways instead of, say, MCQ.

 

The Maple engine then accurately and efficiently evaluates their responses, without the tutor’s physical intervention. Maple T.A. has provided for more value-added options in online testing and has opened the door to new exciting possibilities in assessing students’ grasp of the subject.