Boost Learning with Effective Multiple-Choice Quizzing

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) matter. Regular, repeated retrieval, like answering MCQs leads to stronger long-term memory than just re-reading content. Too often, we just go back over the same notes we’ve written and read a thousand times, without considering whether it’s actually doing anything for us. It’s far too easy to fall into that trap, and spend hours on your revision, only to find that you’re in a no better position than when you started.

Sullivan Tutor Academy is a massive advocate for the use of multiple-choice questions. We believe that well crafted MCQs test other skills than just the ability to recall definitions and facts. They can trigger active retrieval and address misconceptions through their simple design.

Deeper Thinking

Addressing misconceptions can take many forms. Sometimes we present options that are incorrect, but very similar to the correct answer, or presented in a way that encourages deeper thinking. After all, so-called ‘distractor’ options (those that are incorrect) should reflect real student misunderstandings, and shouldn’t be arbitrary or obvious. Distractor questions should also be based on real student errors, as these provide the most accurate areas for misconceptions.

In addition, we tend to avoid the use of ‘all of the above’ or ‘none of the above’ options, as they can be very leading. We only include them as legitimate ‘distractor’ options, and only where they address misconceptions. Otherwise, they are just an easy, obvious answer.

We also offer feedback on why certain answers were incorrect, as additional information that can help students to form coherent schema and deepen their understanding of a given topic. We do this more often with True/False questions, as their narrower focus provides a better opportunity to avoid excessive cognitive demand.

MCQs vs Short Answer

Studies show that MCQs perform at about the same rate to short answer questions when it comes to retention and feedback. It is true to say that short answer questions may support deeper production of knowledge, but we should not ignore the benefits – MCQs are much easier to mark, and provide instant feedback (no teacher needed!) For this reason, we tend to favour them for frequent low-stakes quizzing. After all, workload is often cited as the biggest factor responsible for declining teacher retention rates.

Speaking of…

Frequent low-stakes quizzing has the potential to significantly improve exam performance. The little and often approach unsurprisingly beats cramming every day of the week. It’s not hard to see why when we consider the brain and how working memory does its thing.

In class quizzing

When working on a problem as a group, it’s often harder to test individual understanding, because one person can inadvertently reveal the answer to others, spoiling its effect for everyone else. For this reason, we follow a strict class routine. A countdown is used to ensure everyone reveals their answer at the same time. We work on the principle that 2 minutes is the maximum amount of time someone could need for a MCQ with 4 options, and thus we keep the pace on with quick hinge questions. We find that it’s also more effective to withhold the correct answer until the end, so that students don’t immediately switch off after hearing the validation. This way they’re forced to hear the explanations and learn in the process.

The Sullivan Method

Previously, we’ve talked about the structure of our Zoom lessons. We use a lot of MCQs there! When built in at regular intervals, and used in conjunction with strong classroom routines and intentional design, MCQs have the potential to be a powerful force in the classroom at not only assessing learning, but promoting it. Combining retrieval effort, feedback, and highly targeted questioning, and you’ve got a recipe for one powerful learning tool. Check out our summer jumpstart course now (included in standard and pro tutoring packages for free) and you can see how we implement MCQs effectively to ensure the best possible recall of information.

We look forward to seeing how you get on with our course quizzes, and in-lesson checks for understanding. Check back soon to learn more teaching and learning pro tips!