Assessing database development skills using an on-line MCQ: Reflections on test design and academic integrity
Date
2021-06-23Author
Lang, Michael
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Lang, Michael. (2021). Assessing database development skills using an on-line MCQ: Reflections on test design and academic integrity. Paper presented at the 7th International Conference on Higher Education Advances (HEAd’21) Virtual conference, 22-23 June.
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Abstract
This paper reports on the experiences of assessing a large postgraduate
module in Database Systems using an on-line MCQ test under COVID-19
conditions with no remote proctoring. While the technology and the “higher
order thinking” assessment worked well, analysis of response patterns
suggested that, despite the use of randomised questions, time pressure and an
honour pledge, a substantial number of students formed mini-networks
during the test and colluded with each other to discuss the answers. No
differences by gender or age were observed as regards tendency to engage in
this behaviour, and domestic students were just as likely as international
students to do it. Notably, domestic and international students seemed to stay
apart, colluding almost exclusively with others of their own nationality.