Why Multiple-Choice Only Quizzes Suck

By: Justin Ferriman May 22, 2013
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mcquestions-cartoonThe learning industry is taking-off with tons of gadgets and gizmos at our disposal. There are learning management systems, course creation tools, gameification techniques, and so much more. Even more exciting are the great leaps that have been made in the world of assessment, but before getting into that, here’s a little quiz for you: In your opinion, multiple choice questions:

A) Are great and are perfect for all types of learning
B) Provide insight into what has truly been learned
C) Neither A or B

While your answer to this question isn’t entirely necessary (you answered “C”, didn’t you?), I am using it to make a point about an unfortunate reality. Despite all the advancements in our learning tools, end-of-course assessments more often than not follow the multiple choice model.

The major issue with multiple choice only quizzes are that they don’t really measure deep thinking skills, and often the answer can be deduced just by the wording of the question. In fact, there is little to no critical thinking involved in any multiple choice based quiz.

In a world where technology makes elearning more dynamic, the quiz questions we use should reflect a similar level of flexibility, creativity, and intellectual stimulation.

An Example

Consider for a moment someone who takes a course on the solar system. Using today’s elearning technology, this course could involve video, games, linear/non-linear progression, point-systems, self-discovery modules, branching scenarios, and so much more. If the quiz at the end of this course only includes multiple choice, then we are neglecting a major piece of learning comprehension. The quizzes in our learning should not only include multiple choice, but also include video questions, fill-in-the-blank, sorting – to name a few. Changing the quiz question style keeps the learner engaged, as well as exercises various methods of learning recall.

Unfortunately, one of the main reasons that multiple choice is the “go-to” for instructional designers, teachers, and the like is because there are still traditional tools out there that lack anything better. Many learning management systems still adhere to a multiple choice philosophy – a pretty telling sign that these providers are out-of-touch with modern learning theories and trends.

You have a large choice of learning tools at your disposal, more than ever before. This is one area that cannot be overlooked when assessing which option is best for you. Here at LearnDash we understand learning, it is our industry. That’s why we don’t handcuff our users with multiple choice only.

Regardless if you are using LearnDash as your WordPress LMS, or something else, make sure you do your due diligence when choosing any tool involved with learning. In the end, it will make your content much more effective, relevant, and well-received.

Justin Ferriman

Justin started LearnDash, the WordPress LMS trusted by Fortune 500 companies, major universities, training organizations, and entrepreneurs worldwide. He is currently founder & CEO of GapScout. Justin’s Homepage | GapScout | Twitter