Short answer question type (Moodle Quiz)
Short answer questions are widely utilised in Moodle quizzes at UOW, and are also available as a question type in the Lesson activity. This question type utilises pre-configured correct responses. This means students' written responses will be automatically marked by the system against pre-filled answers, which can include wildcards to broaden the possible formatting of correct responses.
Why?
Unlike Multiple choice questions, Short answer questions can reduce the chances of students guessing the correct responses randomly. Allowing students to write a single word or phrase not only helps them recall information, key terms or vocabulary, but also can facilitate clear and concise expression of their thoughts.
How?
Question design considerations
When designing Short answer questions:
- aim to keep the answers as short as possible. Ideally, use single words to minimise the chances of missing a technically correct answer that is worded differently to the preset answer.
- phrase the wording of questions clearly to avoid confusion about what is being asked. Ambiguity in the phrasing of the question may lead to multiple answers that could be considered correct.
- consider if partial marks will be given where correct answers are more than one word long. To effectively facilitate this, wildcards may be required.
Creating Short answer questions
For advice on how to set up Short answer questions, including important considerations for feedback, wildcard usage, and caveats about the apostrophe character, please refer to the Moodle Documentation – Short answer question type.
