Question format is the best predictor of item discrimination: a multivariable analysis.

ABSTRACT: Item discrimination, the point-biserial correlation between performance on a question and total exam score, was analyzed in relation to question format, difficulty, and Bloom's taxonomy, which are rarely studied together in a joint framework. To estimate their independent contributions in undergraduate biology examinations, simultaneous multivariable linear and logistic models were conducted on an upper year biology item bank (n = 754). Predictors were question format (multiple-choice question [MCQ], short answer [SA], true/false [TF]), difficulty (easy >80%, moderate 60%-80%, hard <60%), and Bloom (recall, understanding, application, analysis). Question format was the strongest independent predictor. Relative to MCQs, SA items showed higher discrimination and greater odds of meetin

SUBMITTER: Hillsley K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12687604 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature