Integrated Testlets: A New Form of Expert-Student Collaborative Testing

Abstract

Integrated testlets are a new assessment tool that encompass the procedural benefits of multiple-choice testing, the pedagogical advantages of free-response-based tests, and the collaborative aspects of a viva voce or defence examination format. The result is a robust assessment tool that provides a significant formative aspect for students. Integrated testlets utilize an answer-until-correct response format within a scaffolded set of multiple-choice items that each provide immediate confirmatory or corrective feedback while also allowing for the granting of partial credit. We posit here that this testing format comprises a form of expert-student collaboration, we expand on this significance and discuss possible extensions to the approach.