Chris Farrell, PhD, professor of Biology here at TNU is principle investigator for an interesting research project involving Trevecca and HAPS (Human Anatomy and Physiological Society). Chris also serves as Committee Chair for the HAPS testing committee.

Project background

The project concerns the Combined Comprehensive Exam in Anatomy and Physiology. The 2001 version of the exam was given 3,200 times in 30 different institutions (that have reported) and possibly more.  One of the target goals of the project is to increase reporting from test locations and takers.

The pilot study at Trevecca was organized to see if Perception© software could be used as a testing software.  The strengths of the software are that is has a secure browser and it can administer tests to students anywhere.

At the end of the second semester of Anatomy, the exam was administered to students (using Perception©) here at Trevecca, at St. Louis College of Pharmacy, and at Troy State in Montgomery.

Results

The results showed that the testing went smoothly and that it was accepted well by students, although here were some minor computer problems.

There were some unexpected benefits from using Perception:

• For the first time, it became clear that some questions were proving difficult for higher performing students and less difficult for lower performing students (negative correlation).

• The problem was analyzed by several Anatomy professors and adaptations were made.

This could not have happened without the item analysis possible through the functionality of the software.

Future plans

As a result of the pilot study findings, Chris has been encouraged to apply to the National Science Foundation for a grant.  The encouragement has come from an administrator and colleague from the Foundation's Core Curriculum and Lab Improvement Division.  The application will be for a Phase II development grant in order to:

1. Increase the number of students using the test from 50-250, over a three-year period.

2. Demonstrate that the process of detailed item analysis in testing will better improve the test as an assessment of learning.