Related Experiment Videos
Development and evaluation of classroom tests: a practical application
The Journal of Nursing Education
|February 1, 1988
Summary
Faculty improved nursing classroom tests by systematically evaluating quality, enhancing test validity and reliability. This process led to fairer student assessments and revised grading policies.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Educational Measurement
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Concerns identified by a 15-member faculty group regarding the quality of classroom tests in an undergraduate nursing course.
- Existing testing and grading policies were perceived as potentially impacting test fairness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate and improve the quality of classroom tests in an undergraduate nursing course.
- To strengthen the validity and reliability of tests to ensure greater fairness for students.
- To revise testing and grading policies based on evaluation findings.
Main Methods:
- Systematic evaluation of classroom tests over several semesters.
- Application of testing and measurement principles, including difficulty and discrimination indices.
- Analysis of the effects of poor-item elimination on test quality.
- Determination of appropriate cut scores for grading.
Main Results:
- Implementation of changes in testing procedures and grading policies.
- Demonstrated improvements in test validity and reliability.
- Enhanced fairness in student assessments due to improved test quality.
Conclusions:
- Systematic evaluation and application of measurement principles can significantly improve the quality of educational assessments.
- Revised testing and grading strategies enhance the validity, reliability, and fairness of nursing classroom tests.
- Faculty engagement in test evaluation is crucial for improving educational outcomes.