MCQ Examinations for Large Number of Students: Design and Grading

Abstract

In this paper, a proposal for a criterion for designing and implementing MCQ exams in engineering mechanics course is introduced. The special case of a very large number of engineering students in Alexandria University is considered as a case study. In this case, a quick, though accurate and fair, method of evaluating students’ performance is a must especially when using the credit hour system. Full Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) and computer based exams become so common. However, hybrid/subjective or total subjective exams are still in use in some institutions. Even though the process of implementing MCQ exams is well known and mature in humanity courses, in technical courses, sometimes, this process is not straightforward. It may depend on experience as it becomes well established and of minimum time after being applied for many years. In addition, the technical ability of the used software gives instructors more capabilities in analyzing results and establishing a basis for learning statistics. The case of coordinated engineering mechanics course with large number of students is emphasized. A hierarchy of procedures starting from ideas of questions till finishing grading and inputting grades in bulk into online system is formulated. The proposed methodology is of low cost and not so sensitive to technical abilities of software. Also, it doesn’t require instructors with detailed computer knowledge. Finally, it can be used by instructors in other universities as it formulated to be of generic nature.