tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5458172893016186479.post-37364713822459137462008-07-07T15:37:00.000-05:002008-07-07T15:37:00.000-05:00I like the idea of random testing and I think that when it comes to all testing, the more random the better.<BR/><BR/>But early in your post you note a problem with internal validity. Your proposal won't exactly fix that, although it could if the test were designed properly. <BR/><BR/>The problem noted by Roger in the comments also presents a slightly differnt problem, that of recall versus retention, by which I mean that students can recall what was taught two weeks ago or yesterday, but can't retain what was taught six months ago, let alone last year. What this calls for is the testing regime to not only test what has been recently taught, but to go back in time to test retention of previous material.<BR/><BR/>But another matter that a random testing regime needs to account for is multiple test format, from mulitple choice to short answer to essay length prompts. There is also the need in some subjects to have students "show their work" i.e. maths and sciences.<BR/><BR/>Still, randomization will work wonders to avoid the massive test prep regimes that are to a certain extent complained about by parents and teachers.Matt Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01352443552682708733noreply@blogger.com