Multiple-Choice Item Construction: Passage Dependency of Items

Abstract

The backwash effect of testing on teaching and learning is a phenomenon observable in any educational scene. As Pilliner (1968) states: “It is axiomatic that (the) content (of tests) inevitably influences the teaching and learning which precedes them... Properly constructed, (the) test can foster good teaching and sound learning and discourage their opposites.” Indeed, this far-reaching influence has made the teacher gravitate towards teaching what is normally examinable and examined. However, the effect of backwash can imperceptibly turn into backlashing if the test is not properly constructed.