Computer-Assembled Modular Exams in an Undergraduate-Level P/OM (Production/Operations Management) Course.

An established principle of learning is that effectiveness and satisfaction are enhanced by early or "immediate" reinforcement. Traditional testing patterns involving midterm and final examinations are contrary to this principle. An improved instructional approach has been installed in an introductory P/OM course. The approach features 10 learning modules, each ending with a short computer-assembled and-scored exam. Retesting is permitted. Learning is reinforced, by a passing test score and immediate knowledge of correct answers, within one-and-one-half weeks of first exposure to the material. For each module, a large number of test items in computer memory is assembled into short tests by a pseudo-random stratified selection process. Each student receives a unique exam. There is no benefit from looking at another's sheet. He answers on a mark-sense answer sheet which he exchanges for a computer-produced sheet that gives the correct answers, reasons why these are correct, and reference-page numbers. Principal demonstrated benefits are: (1) large increases in student enjoyment of the course, shown by comparing present and past standard course evaluation statistics; (2) indications of enhanced learning effectiveness, shown by comparing percentages correct on common test items under old and new approaches; (3) avoidance of the usual "loaf-and- cram" cycle and attendant deleterious effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]