Using ExamBuilder as an assessment tool

Contributed by Lisa Anzalone

Introduction to ExamBuilder/Uses/Benefits           
                ExamBuilder is an online assessment tool in the cloud that allows one to create and administer exams over the Internet. There are no downloads, installs, or plug-ins required.  This online assessment tool supports these types of questions:  true/false, fill in the blank, matching, and multiple choice.  Another benefit of ExamBuilder is that allows testing in a variety of interfaces to best suit all students.  The possible interfaces include:  iPhone, iPad, Android, and Blackberry.  

                ExamBuilder can test and deliver results immediately allowing a unique reteaching or remediation opportunity.  This allows the assessment to identify gaps, improve course material and drive long-term change.  With one click you will find out who answered incorrectly to help in the reteaching and remediation process. You can set the properties to automatically schedule a retake if a minimum score isn’t achieved.  ExamBuilder provides real-time assessment feedback.  This component would be beneficial; as the timing of feedback is a crucial part of the learning process.


 

Weaknesses/Challenges of the tool                 
                 Like any assessment tool there are some potential cons.   It is a rather pricey purchase given budgets in today’s economy. There is a yearly fee associated with this online assessment tool.   In the educational arena, this would be a larger concern compared to a business environment in which ExamBuilder could be used to complete employee training.  There would be a learning curve to implement this assessment tool and assessments would need to be continually monitored to best suit the learners and the learning objectives.  (This is true of most learning situations.)  Another con would be that you are limited to the types of question/answer formats in ExamBuilder. 

Example of application of the tool in an online classroom                 
                 I would utilize this online tool to assess students knowledge of the financial terminology during each unit.  My observation during the instruction of this course is most high school students are limited in their exposure to financial terminology.  With this issue, it makes it difficult for students to build on their knowledge without having mastered the terminology.   I would use a variety of question formats to assess their knowledge of the terminology early in the unit to reduce the amount of student struggles. 

Learning objective connected to the use of the assessment tool (ExamBuilder)

                After completing the required readings, the student will define and appropriately identify the financial terminology used throughout the unit with a minimum of 80% proficiency.

                After completing the required readings and the unit activities, the student will be able to identify factors that affect cash flow with 80% accuracy.