title: The TRIPSE: a process-oriented exam for large undergraduate classes.
abstract: The TRIPSE (tri-partite problem solving exercise), a process-oriented exam that mimics the scientific process, was used previously in small classes (15-25). Provided limited data, students frame explanations and design experimental tests that they later revise with additional information. Our 6-year experience using it with larger numbers (155-204) in a freshman biology course, suggests that it could provide a means of assessing individual student performance. Students rated the learning value of this experience to be significantly higher than a standard MCQ on a 10-point scale (TRIPSEs 8.2, CI 8.1/8.4 vs. MCQs 4.9, CI 4.8/5.1, n = 712). Additionally, we tested one cohort (n = 146) with a group TRIPSE (groups of 6), and found that this variant also provided a valuable learning experience (8.0, CI 7.7/8.3).
authors: Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honors) Program, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada.
authors: Stash
authors: S
authors: Nastos
authors: P K
authors: PK
authors: Rangachari
mesh_terms: D003585:Cell Biology / Q000193:education*; D002468:Cell Physiological Phenomena; D006801:Humans; D008967:Molecular Biology / Q000193:education*; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D012107:Research Design; D012647:Self-Assessment; D040443:Students, Public Health