The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions
Abstract Background Retrieval practice is a highly effective learning strategy that enhances long-term retention by encouraging the active recall of information. However, the optimal question format for maximizing knowledge retention remains uncertain. In this study, we compared the effect of very s...
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BMC
2024-12-01
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| Series: | BMC Medical Education |
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| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-06538-0 |
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| author | Elise V. van Wijk Mario de Jonge Floris M. van Blankenstein Roemer J. Janse Alexandra M.J. Langers |
| author_facet | Elise V. van Wijk Mario de Jonge Floris M. van Blankenstein Roemer J. Janse Alexandra M.J. Langers |
| author_sort | Elise V. van Wijk |
| collection | DOAJ |
| description | Abstract Background Retrieval practice is a highly effective learning strategy that enhances long-term retention by encouraging the active recall of information. However, the optimal question format for maximizing knowledge retention remains uncertain. In this study, we compared the effect of very short answer (VSAQ) versus multiple-choice question (MCQ) practice tests on students’ knowledge retention. By analyzing these two formats, we aim to identify the most effective approach to retrieval practice, thereby helping to optimize its implementation and improve learning outcomes. Methods In this randomized within-subjects study, students (n = 45) practiced with both VSAQs and MCQs in an extracurricular lifestyle course, without receiving feedback. The final retention test consisted of identical questions in both formats. A 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine the effect of question format in practice testing and final test on final test score. Additionally, digital questionnaires were used to explore students’ test-taking experiences. Results The VSAQs were answered incorrectly more frequently on the practice tests and final test. There was no main effect of practice question format on final test performance, and no interaction effect between question format on the practice and final test. Regardless of question format, most students thought the practice tests were beneficial for learning. Conclusions We found no evidence indicating that either MCQ or VSAQ is more effective for knowledge retention during retrieval practice. The lower initial retrieval success in the VSAQs, indicated by the higher degree of incorrect answers on the practice tests, might have limited their effectiveness during retrieval practice. To optimize the use of VSAQs in retrieval practice, it seems important to improve initial retrieval success to maximize learning outcomes. Clinical trial number Not applicable. |
| format | Article |
| id | doaj-art-f5dc8321dd0742f7b8ea2677bd30a446 |
| institution | Kabale University |
| issn | 1472-6920 |
| language | English |
| publishDate | 2024-12-01 |
| publisher | BMC |
| record_format | Article |
| series | BMC Medical Education |
| spelling | doaj-art-f5dc8321dd0742f7b8ea2677bd30a4462025-01-05T12:33:49ZengBMCBMC Medical Education1472-69202024-12-0124111010.1186/s12909-024-06538-0The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questionsElise V. van Wijk0Mario de Jonge1Floris M. van Blankenstein2Roemer J. Janse3Alexandra M.J. Langers4Center for Innovation in Medical Education, Leiden University Medical CenterLeiden University Graduate School of Teaching, Leiden UniversityCenter for Innovation in Medical Education, Leiden University Medical CenterDepartment of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical CenterDepartment of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical CenterAbstract Background Retrieval practice is a highly effective learning strategy that enhances long-term retention by encouraging the active recall of information. However, the optimal question format for maximizing knowledge retention remains uncertain. In this study, we compared the effect of very short answer (VSAQ) versus multiple-choice question (MCQ) practice tests on students’ knowledge retention. By analyzing these two formats, we aim to identify the most effective approach to retrieval practice, thereby helping to optimize its implementation and improve learning outcomes. Methods In this randomized within-subjects study, students (n = 45) practiced with both VSAQs and MCQs in an extracurricular lifestyle course, without receiving feedback. The final retention test consisted of identical questions in both formats. A 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine the effect of question format in practice testing and final test on final test score. Additionally, digital questionnaires were used to explore students’ test-taking experiences. Results The VSAQs were answered incorrectly more frequently on the practice tests and final test. There was no main effect of practice question format on final test performance, and no interaction effect between question format on the practice and final test. Regardless of question format, most students thought the practice tests were beneficial for learning. Conclusions We found no evidence indicating that either MCQ or VSAQ is more effective for knowledge retention during retrieval practice. The lower initial retrieval success in the VSAQs, indicated by the higher degree of incorrect answers on the practice tests, might have limited their effectiveness during retrieval practice. To optimize the use of VSAQs in retrieval practice, it seems important to improve initial retrieval success to maximize learning outcomes. Clinical trial number Not applicable.https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-06538-0Retrieval practiceTest-enhanced learningTesting effectQuestion formatVery short answer questionMultiple-choice question |
| spellingShingle | Elise V. van Wijk Mario de Jonge Floris M. van Blankenstein Roemer J. Janse Alexandra M.J. Langers The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions BMC Medical Education Retrieval practice Test-enhanced learning Testing effect Question format Very short answer question Multiple-choice question |
| title | The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions |
| title_full | The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions |
| title_fullStr | The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions |
| title_full_unstemmed | The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions |
| title_short | The battle of question formats: a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions |
| title_sort | battle of question formats a comparative study of retrieval practice using very short answer questions and multiple choice questions |
| topic | Retrieval practice Test-enhanced learning Testing effect Question format Very short answer question Multiple-choice question |
| url | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-06538-0 |
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