Centre for Academic Practice, Trinity Teaching & Learning

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin

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Tests/Quizzes

Online tests or quizzes consist of a series of questions which are usually completed online in real-time (i.e. during a short pre-defined time period). Commonly associated with MCQs (multiple choice questions), they can include a range of question types including fill-in-the-blank, true/false, calculations, hotspot and short answer questions.

Typically used to….

assess ‘lower order’ thinking skills such as acquisition of knowledge, basic comprehension and application of some skills (e.g. calculations)
for revision purposes. Students’ marks can be provided automatically, giving immediate feedback on progress.
for diagnostic assessment. Immediate feedback enables students and lecturers to track a students’ progress and identify areas for attention.

Key considerations when preparing for tests/quizzes

When preparing for, or doing tests or quizzes, always refer to the guidelines and requirements provided by your lecturer, keeping the following points in mind:

Is the test/quiz being used for formative or summative assessment purposes (or both!)
If the test/quiz contributes to your final grade (i.e. is being used for summative assessment), how much is it worth?
Is it a multiple choice test or will you have to write/type open answers? What criteria is being used to assess your open answers? Has a rubric been provided?
What topics are included in the test? How many questions? How long will you have?
Are there any sample tests you can use to practice?
To prepare, it can be useful to compile the key information from each week or lecture. That includes key definitions, formulae, examples, key authors.
Plan your strategy for during the test: do you need a spare page, calculator or reference material?
Work out how much time you will be able to spend on each question and stick to it as best you can.