Showing 1 - 2 of 2 Research Library Publications

One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Using Factor Analysis to Gather Validity Evidence When Using Surveys in Your Research

Posted: | E. Knetka, C. Runyon, S. Eddy

CBE—Life Sciences Education Vol. 18, No. 1

 

This article briefly reviews the aspects of validity that researchers should consider when using surveys. It then focuses on factor analysis, a statistical method that can be used to collect an important type of validity evidence.

Category:Assessment-Oriented Research, Reliability/Validity

The Optimal Number of Options for Multiple-Choice Questions on High-Stakes Tests: Application of a Revised Index for Detecting Nonfunctional Distractors

Posted: | M.R. Raymond, C. Stevens, S.D. Bucak

Adv in Health Sci Educ 24, 141–150 (2019)

 

Research suggests that the three-option format is optimal for multiple choice questions (MCQs). This conclusion is supported by numerous studies showing that most distractors (i.e., incorrect answers) are selected by so few examinees that they are essentially nonfunctional. However, nearly all studies have defined a distractor as nonfunctional if it is selected by fewer than 5% of examinees.

Category:Assessment-Oriented Research, General Measurement