Online formative tests linked to microlectures improving academic achievement.
BACKGROUND
Online formative tests (OFTs) are powerful tools to direct student learning behavior, especially when enriched with specific feedback.


OBJECTIVE
In the present study, we have investigated the effect of OFTs enriched with hyperlinks to microlectures on examination scores.


METHODS
OFTs, available one week preceding each midterm and the final exams, could be used voluntarily. The use of OFTs was related to scores on midterm and final exams using ANOVA, with prior academic achievement as a covariate.


RESULTS
On average, 74% of all students used the online formative tests (OFT+) while preparing for the summative midterm exam. OFT+ students obtained significantly higher grades compared to OFT-students, both without and with correction for previous academic achievement. Two out of three final exam scores did not significantly improve.


CONCLUSIONS
Students using online formative tests linked to microlectures receive higher grades especially in highly aligned summative tests.
University Medical Center Utrecht , The Netherlands.
Rianne A M
RA
Bouwmeester
Renske A M
RA
de Kleijn
Astrid W M
AW
Freriksen
Maarten G
MG
van Emst
Rob J
RJ
Veeneklaas
Maggy J W
MJ
van Hoeij
Matty
M
Spinder
Magda J
MJ
Ritzen
Olle Th J
OT
Ten Cate
Harold V M
HV
van Rijen
D001690:Biological Science Disciplines / Q000193:education*; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D004521:Educational Measurement / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007721:Knowledge of Results, Psychological; D008297:Male; D009426:Netherlands; D055815:Young Adult