Developing and Validating Multiple-choice Test Items

This is the most current and comprehensive book devoted to item writing. It addresses the related topics of multiple-choice test item development and validation of responses to these test items -- two critical steps in the development of any cognitive test. In so doing, the volume provides a conceptual basis for item writing, reviews the issue of constructed- versus selected-response testing, presents a variety of formats, provides guidance in developing items as well as a basis for reviewing, evaluating, and improving items, and speculates about the future of item development and validation.

This book helps readers better understand the concepts, principles, and procedures available to build better test items that will lead to more reliable tests of ability and achievement.