Question- What are the various steps involved in the preparation of a diagnostic test?

Ans.

A diagnostic test can be prepared using the following steps :

(i) Planning : The unit on which a diagnostic test is based, requires a detailed or exhaustive content analysis. It is broken into learning points without omitting any point. Diagnostic procedure says mastery of the total process cannot be stronger than that of weakest link in the related concepts and skills. As far as a diagnostic test is concerned, it is important that each learning point should have an adequate number of questions to help identify the area of weakness.

(ii) Writing Items : All forms of questions (essay, short answer and objective type) can be used for testing different learning points. It is to be seen that the questions are easy, suitable for average student's of that age or grade. The questions have to be specifically related to the learning points and should be such so as to throw light on the weakness of the students.

The questions should be written in simple language. The scope of the expected answers should be clear to the students. The learning points are to be arranged sequentially from simple to complex which ensures that the student's do not have to change their mental sets very frequently.

(iii) Assembling the Test : The test needs to be assembled though there is no need to provide blueprint for such tests. No time limit needs to be specified. However, for an administrative case, a time limit maybe set.

(iv) Providing Directions and Preparing Scoring Key : There is a need to provide diagnostic tests with a scoring key and marking scheme. The set of instructions need to be clear and precise.
(v) Reviewing the Test : Before the test is printed, it is to be carefully edited and reviewed. This ensures that any inadvertent errors are eliminated.

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