Theoretical Framework

Testing Technique

Unique-answer item

Items in which the rest taker has to provide a short answer are common, particularly in listening and reading test.

Example:  

·         What does it in the last sentence refer to?

·         How old was Hannibal when he started eating human beings?

·         Why did Hannibal enjoy eating brain so much?

                                                                                                           

Advantages over multiple choices are that:

Ø  Guessing will (or should)contribute less to rest scores

Ø  The technique is not restricted by the need for distracters (though there have to be potential alternative response)

Ø  Cheating is likely to be more difficult

Ø  Though great care must still be taken, items should be easier to write.

Disadvantages are:

Ø  Responses may take longer and so reduce the possible number of items.

Ø  The test taker has to produce language in order to respond.

Ø  Scoring may be invalid or unreliable, if judgment is required

Ø   Scoring may take longer