Measuring Up: Assessment in Microeconomics

22 Pages Posted: 25 Jun 2012

See all articles by Jill Hayter

Jill Hayter

East Tennessee State University - Department of Economics and Finance

Carolyn F. Rochelle

East Tennessee State University - Department of Economics and Finance

Date Written: June 1, 2012

Abstract

Assessment takes place university wide, from evaluation of the entire institution to the micro focus of specific courses using learning objectives. Many faculty perceive assessment as already occurring through the assignment of grades. This paper investigates empirically the ongoing grades versus assessment debate. By examining the relationship between examination questions and post-test comprehension of learning objectives in Principles of Microeconomics, this study analyzes whether differences exist in proportions of correct responses from the two evaluation methods for each learning objective. For some of the objectives there are statistical differences found between the two proportions but insignificant differences for the remaining objectives. The authors conclude that these mixed results demonstrate exam questions and assessment post-test questions are not equal measures of student learning of course content.

Keywords: grades versus assessment, learning objectives, economic education

JEL Classification: A20, A22, I21

Suggested Citation

Hayter, Jill and Rochelle, Carolyn F., Measuring Up: Assessment in Microeconomics (June 1, 2012). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2091501 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2091501

Jill Hayter (Contact Author)

East Tennessee State University - Department of Economics and Finance ( email )

Box 70686
Johnson City, TN 37614
United States
423-439-5926 (Phone)
423-439-8583 (Fax)

Carolyn F. Rochelle

East Tennessee State University - Department of Economics and Finance ( email )

Box 70686
Johnson City, TN 37614
United States
423-439-4202 (Phone)
423-439-8583 (Fax)

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