Assessing exam quality through measurement indices and solutions for improving testing effectiveness at Quang Ninh University of Industry

Abstract

This study aims to develop a procedure for evaluating exam quality based on mathematical indices, thereby enhancing objectivity and efficiency in the post-exam analysis of end-of-course assessments. The indices employed include Difficulty Index (P), Discrimination Index (D), and Percentile Rank, which provide a basis for assessing the appropriateness of each test item in differentiating student performance levels. The research method relies on data from end-of-course examinations, applying a percentile-based grouping algorithm (Upper 27%, Lower 27%) to calculate discrimination, while also developing an Excel-based tool to automate the data processing workflow. The findings indicate that indices P and D effectively identify items with unsatisfactory difficulty or discrimination values, thus informing recommendations for retention, revision, or elimination. The study affirms that applying simple yet rational mathematical indices not only saves time and reduces subjective bias but also improves the quality of item banks and the overall effectiveness of assessment practices at Quang Ninh University of Industry.