Assessment (CC BY-SA 3.0 NY) By nyphotographic
The Blackboard test canvas is an extremely flexible tool for the creation of online quizzes and tests. It’s features include:
• 17 different question types to choose from
• Randomly generate quizzes using a pool of questions
• Allow students to retake an unlimited amount of times or set a limit on the number of reattempts
• Blackboard can grade all answers (for the majority of the 17 question types) and release the marks to the student
• Design feedback into the marking to inform students why their answer is in/correct and signpost where they can find the correct answer
Feedback on understanding and performance is critical in learning. A well-designed quiz or test can give students and staff valuable information about student’s prior knowledge, misconceptions, understanding or progression. If feedback is rapid enough it can also be a diagnostic tool that students can use to gauge their own performance and highlight areas for improvement.
Suggested uses for online quizzes/tests include:
• Quick assessment of knowledge and understanding
• Gauge prior knowledge and adapt teaching accordingly/refer students to additional or essential reading
• Summative module assessment
• Skills test
• Assign mini quizzes based on reading assignments/tasks to assess completion and understanding
• Combine quiz grades with adaptive release to create a learning journey within a module
To get an overview of the the test canvas take a look at the video below:
To explore the Blackboard test canvas and learn more about its functions and features SALT have devised an online self-paced learning module within Blackboard itself. The module contains all of the resources and guidance needed to help you create and deploy online tests/quizzes. To gain access to the Blackboard module please click the link below which will open a new email message which you can send to the team.
Access Blackboard Test CPD Module request link
Warning:
We would advise that if you plan on designing and implementing a high stakes summative assessment using the Blackboard test canvas you should consult with SALT prior to developing the assessment in the first instance. The following document also provides some guidance: Guidance for Summative high stakes assessment in Blackboard.pdf
Suggested Reading:
Balter, O, Enstrom, E and Klingenberg, B. (2013) The effect of short formative diagnostic web quizzes with minimal feedback. Computers & Education, 60:1, 234-242
Gikandi, J.W. Morrow, D. and Davies, N.E. (2011) Online formative assessment in higher education: A review of the literature. Computers & Education, 57:4, 2333-2351
Nicol, D.J and Macfarlane-Dick, D. (2006) Formative assessment and self-regulated learning: a model and seven prinicples of good feedback practice. Studies in Higher Education, 31:2, 199-218
Roberts, T.S (2006) The use of multiple choice tests for formative and summative assessment. ACE ’06 Proceedings of the 8th Australasian Conference on Computing Education, 52, 175-180
