What is it?
Two-phase testing splits an exam into two parts. The first part is the typical individual exam, where students work on problems on their own. They then turn in these papers, and receive a second exam, which they work on in groups. The questions on the second exam test the same concepts as those on the first, but are usually re-written to be more qualitative and more conceptual in nature.
In a 90-minute class block, Wieman et al. allotted 55 minutes for the individual exam, 5 minutes for changeover, and 30 minutes for the group exam.
What are the benefits?
Two-phase testing presents several benefits to students. First, it offers them a chance to receive immediate feedback on their exam performance. Second, they have the chance to engage in informed discussions with their peers on course material, promoting collaborative and social learning. Finally, two-stage exams may reduce perceived exam anxiety (Rempel, 2021).
Students’ marks on the test are calculated from a combination of the individual test score and the group test score. If the group test score was lower than the individual score, then the test score came solely from the individual score. Wieman et al. did not find a significant difference in marks whether the group portion was weighted at 15% or 25% of the exam mark (with the remainder coming from the individual score).
What are the challenges?
It is difficult to accommodate latecomers to the exam, since the group portion is usually filled with lively discussion.
Who’s using this?
Pending… if you’ve used this technique and you’re willing to share thoughts about your and your students’ experience, send me an email!
References
Rempel, B. P., Dirks, M. B., & McGinitie, E. G. (2021). Two-stage testing reduces student-perceived exam anxiety in introductory chemistry. Journal of Chemical Education, 98(8), 2527-2535. KPU Library Permalink.
Wieman, C. E., Rieger, G. W. and Heiner, C. E. (2014) Physics Exams that Promote Collaborative Learning. The Physics Teacher, 52, 51-53. https://doi.org/10.1119/1.4849159
