Tests... @@

There have always been tests in schools throughout the curriculum. Why are there so many tests??? Wow… if started to count from kindergarten, to primary then secondary schools, I had been in schools for more or less 15 years. How many tests have I taken for that 15 years??? Innumerable!!! Even in uni, we have to sit for quizzes, mid-terms and final exams. So, why do teachers test students? Hmm… Actually, teachers use various kinds of tests to find out how well students are learning and if their instruction has been successful or not, place students at different levels, report the performance of schools and etc.

I just got to know that there are six types of tests, namely (i) progress test, (ii) achievement test, (iii) diagnostic test, (iv) placement test, (v) proficiency test, and (vi) aptitude test. Progress test and achievement tests are similar, where both the tests are used to determine whether students have acquired the appropriate skills and knowledge. However, achievement test is usually given by the end of a given period of instruction.

The following table illustrates types of tests and purposes, and when the tests are administered.

** Types of Tests and Purposes **