Computer-based testing (CBT) for assessment of medical and dental students on the higher levels of Bloom’s taxonomy.

Abstract

This study reflects on a new Computer-based testing (CBT) system implemented at the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria (UP) in South Africa. This CBT model was used in different innovative ways for assessing medical and dental students on the higher levels of Bloom’s taxonomy. The students showed an overall positive feel for using this CBT system of assessment. Compliance amongst the students was established and the learning experience was also enhanced due to immediate feedback available after each assessment. The lecturers involved with designing the questions agreed that the new CBT system can be used for testing on higher levels of Bloom’s taxonomy and are positive with regards to its application. A favourable relationship between the cost, resources and logistics was also established when using this format of assessment. Taking into account the scope and versatility of this new system, its potential to be used by any discipline in a tertiary institution, and its potential to test students on higher levels of Bloom’s taxonomy, makes the new system an ideal assessment tool that allows for valid and reliable assessment of large groups of students