Tests without Typing: Flexible Multiple-Choice Reproduction

Abstract

Once a test-item file of objective test questions has been typed, classroom tests can be constructed without retyping the questions; a spirit (ditto) master is made directly from the selected file cards through the use of photocopy machines. A method that has been tested and found effective is described herein. A test-item file was constructed by typing multiple-choice questions from published manuals, together with identifying information, on 5X 8-in. index cards. The identifying information (text title, chapter number, and question number) was typed just below and parallel to one of the 8-in. edges of the card; a strip of clear tape was put over this identification to protect it from the effects of handling. The card then was inverted and the test question was typed just below the opposite 8-in. edge on the same face of the card. A horizontal line was typed two spaces below the last line of the question; a letter identifying the correct answer was typed two spaces below this line. Item analysis data can be entered on the back of each file card. To construct a test, an instructor need give only brief information about questions he has selected from published manuals to a member of the clerical staff. She then pulls the proper cards from the file and, using the horizontal lines as guides, overlaps about 10 cards in a plastic film carrier (e.g., Thermo-Fax Brand) so that only the test questions show. These overlapped cards then are photocopied on 8% X 11-in. paper with an electrostatic copier (e.g., Apeco Super-stat, Model 180). Before the cards are returned to the file, the correct answers are recorded for scoring the test. Any additional information required on the test (e.g., test heading and question numbers) is typed directly on the photocopy. The master for a spirit duplicator is made by running the intermediate photocopy together with a thermal master (e.g., a 3M Spirit Master) through an infrared copying machine (e.g., Thermo-Fax Secretary, Model 45) .