Evaluating teacher-developed test and student achievement in an undergraduate statistics course: An action research

Tekabu, Tokaua and Rao, Dinesh K. and Chand, Ravinesh and Dayal, Hem (2021) Evaluating teacher-developed test and student achievement in an undergraduate statistics course: An action research. Directions: Journal of Educational Studies, 35 (2). pp. 1-13. ISSN 1011-5846

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Abstract

In this study, we used an action research approach to ascertain the degree to which first year undergraduate students had achieved the course learning outcomes of a 100-level course in statistics. In order to achieve a valid interpretation of student achievement, the researchers first had to ensure that the examination items were of reasonable quality and the examination was reliable. We analysed student papers to arrive at specific item statistics such as discrimination index and item-rest correlations. We also checked the Cronbach’s alpha reliability for the overall test. Findings related to student achievement for each learning outcome suggest that three out of the six course learning outcomes were achieved to our satisfaction. The study provided useful points for reflection for us in terms of improving our own teaching using action research. For example, university teachers can reflect on ways of improving in content areas where students’ course learning outcomes were not met. In this particular study, we found that topics such as “confidence interval” and “probability” are areas in which students’ face greater difficulty and thus would require more attention from the teaching staff. These findings provide useful insights on how university teachers can evaluate their own pedagogical practices.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education Q Science > Q Science (General)
Divisions:	School of Pacific Arts, Communication and Education (SPACE) School of Information Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Physics (STEMP)
Depositing User:	Fulori Nainoca - Waqairagata
Date Deposited:	09 Feb 2022 03:52
Last Modified:	09 Feb 2022 03:55
URI:	http://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/13229

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