Hello, everyone. I'd like to know what your opinion is in regard to multiple-choice tests, as opposed to tests featuring mostly essay questions and problem solving.

I believe that while some multiple-choice tests can be too easy and narrow (doesn't cover a lot of material unless there's separate tests for each category being tested); if one of these tests is made right, they can be more useful than a test requiring nothing but essays and problem solving, as multiple-choice can help someone remember something they might not have otherwise, allowing more knowledge to be displayed.

I'd like to hear some input or opinion(s) from everyone here, if you wish. Thanks...

My take on this? Generally, you cannot get good marks in MC tests unless you eally now the subject well -but in essay types, you can score with lesser knowledge but better expression.

Multiple choice look easy, but they can be really very tricky!

Chandresh

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Chandresh

Advice is free – lessons I charge for!!

My opinion is that it depends on the nature of the subject.
For some subjects, MC type questions are ok, and can test the knowledge of the candidate accurately.

For other subjects, MC style questions are silly.
Like economics, history, sociology, etc.
Things are never clear cut and straightforward - there are always several different aspects and ramifications of the issues.

I am glad that in our Indian education system, we had more essay type formats than MC questions.
It allows the candidate to state their points more flexibly.

MC represents the "instant gratification" philosophy of society - here is the question, here are 4 choices, take your pick.
Results are known within a few seconds (if the test is automated) or within a day or so if it is a paper test.

No one any more has the time and the patience to create challenging questions that require the candidate to think through and present different aspects of the problem.
Neither do people taking the test want to write 5 pages of analysis just to get a few points

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In general, I think that the format of an essay is a very good way to learn how to express your thoughts competently and structured. By the way, a very important aspect when writing an essay, especially in college and university, is the degree of uniqueness, so it is very important to always check your text for plagiarism.

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Originally posted by Varishe

In general, I think that the format of an essay is a very good way to learn how to express your thoughts competently and structured. By the way, a very important aspect when writing an essay, especially in college and university, is the degree of uniqueness, so it is very important to always check your text for plagiarism.

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