5 Tips for creating first-class online assessments

Table of contents

1. Tip 1: Avoid terms like “always” and “never”
2. Tip 2: Avoid double negatives in one sentence
3. Tip 3: State the question positively instead of negatively
4. Tip 4: Give four or five answer options
5. Tip 5: Use open-ended questions
6. Make assessments with our online Exam builder

Tip 1: Avoid terms like “always” and “never”

Staying clear of categorical terms such as "always" and "never" in online assessments is a good tip that goes beyond mere test-taking tactics. These terms are frequently associated with incorrect options and can also introduce an element of predictability into the assessment process. Savvy participants may recognize the recurring pattern and anticipate the potential pitfalls. As online trainers, the goal is not to evaluate participants' ability to decipher testing strategies but to assess their knowledge base.

Tip 2: Avoid double negatives in one sentence

Eliminating double negatives from a sentence is a subtle yet powerful technique in crafting clear and comprehensible online assessments. Consider the example: "Which of the following answers are not incorrect?" This confusing phrasing, full of double negatives, can pose a big challenge for participants. Repeated readings become necessary to understand the true intent of the question. However, this confusion is easily avoided by rephrasing the question positively: "Which of the following answers are correct?" This modification not only simplifies the language but also preserves the essence of the inquiry. By opting for a positive formulation, the question becomes more accessible, reducing cognitive load and potential stress for participants.

Eliminating double negatives from a sentence is a subtle yet powerful technique in crafting clear and comprehensible online assessments

Tip 3: State the question positively instead of negatively

Choosing to ask questions in a positive way, rather than using negative wording, is a smart move. Negative questions, with their confusing language, can be tough for even bright individuals to understand. This added difficulty can cause stress for test-takers. By avoiding negatively framed questions, we not only make the questions less confusing but also reduce the stress associated with the assessment. This is important because a positive approach helps create a fair environment where participants can show what they know without being tripped up by tricky language. So, when making online assessments, keeping things positive isn't just about clarity; it's about improving the experience for everyone involved.

Tip 4: Give four or five answer options

The number of answer options is crucial in achieving meaningful assessment results. Experts recommend giving four or five answer choices, finding a balance to provide enough options without overwhelming participants [1]. This approach follows the best practices and makes the assessment more reliable by giving a comprehensive set of options. The idea is to challenge participants appropriately without causing unnecessary confusion.

Tip 5: Use open-ended questions

Open-ended questions offer different and often deeper insights into participants' knowledge than closed ones. Consider scenarios where participants might have questions about comprehending instructions. If a participant indicates a lack of understanding, simply knowing they didn't grasp the instruction isn't sufficient. Open-ended questions come into play here, allowing online trainers to delve deeper and uncover the specific reasons behind any confusion [2].

Open-ended questions offer different and often deeper insights into participants' knowledge than closed ones.

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Useful resources

1. Kansas State University
2. TeachThought

Frequently Asked Questions