Dave Hogberg posted to TIPS: >. . . As I recall, the students' median test score on an >open-book exam was lower than that of a regular hour exam. >...
I too have consistently observed (in my statistics course) that students take more time to complete examinations when allowed to take the test "open-book." Are the students taking the opportunity to look up and check various details, or is "open-book" an invitation to show up for an examination without proper preparation? It's probably a little of both. I used to stress to the students that I encourage them to learn to use their statistics textbook and PC sofware (SPSS and Excel)as resources, but access to those resources cannot substitute for problem-solving practice and proper preparation. There never was even a hint that my speech had any impact on student behavior! What DID work (although not a cure-all) was to develop an extensive battery of homework exercises linked to specific topics. The students must complete and pass in the exercises according to a set schedule. Some exercises are completed during the lab period. In that environment it's easier to ensure that students are working independently. Ken Kenneth M. Rosenberg Professor Department of Psychology --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
