The ALEKS assessment uses open-ended problems
. The assessment uses adaptive questioning, so that
problem types are selected based on all the previous answers the student
has given. It is impossible to predict which types of problems will
appear, or in what order. Moreover, the problems themselves are generated
algorithmically, with randomly-selected values (as is the case also in
the Learning Mode). Consequently, students cannot "learn the
assessment," teachers are unable to "teach to the assessment," and
some types of cheating are impossible. In the unlikely event that two students
sitting next to one another were given the same problem-type at the same
time, the problem parameters and values would be different, and so
would the correct answer. Certain assessments should be supervised,
however, such as the first, midterm, and final assessments in a
course. Without supervision, students could use a textbook, receive
systematic help, or have someone else take the assessment in their
place. (There is no reason for a student who has begun using ALEKS
to cheat on a "progress" assessment, as this will simply cause the
system to suggest problems that are too difficult, and thus hinder the
student's own work.)
The student
will be given an Initial Assessment immediately following completion of
the ALEKS Tutorial (Sec. 3.9).
The student is clearly informed that the assessment is beginning.
Next, a series of problems is posed to the student.
The student provides the solution to each problem using the Answer Editor
(or clicks "I don't know"). In Assessment Mode, the system does
not inform the student whether their answer is correct or incorrect.
The assessment continues until the system has determined the student's
precise knowledge of the course materials, at which time the assessment ends and
a report is presented to the student. The number of questions asked
cannot be known in advance, although consistent effort and attention
may contribute to shorter assessments.
ALEKS® is a registered trademark of ALEKS Corporation.