Student perception of true/false type multiple choice questions (MCQ) as a method of evaluation in forensic medicine

Abstract

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) are an important component in the process of evaluation in Forensic Medicine. Compared to evaluation by long essay type questions and viva-voce examinations, MCQ ensure objectivity and are reliable. High quality MCQs conforming to existing guidelines on MCQ construction is a convenient method of assessing all three cognitive levels of knowledge of large numbers of students. Thus medical students' perceptions of the currently used MCQs in Forensic medicine are explored with a view to revising and improving the existing bank. A questionnaire was administered to 174 students of the 2001/2002 batch and 178 Students of the 2000/2001 batch with the intention of documenting students' views on current MCQs. The response rate was 67.89 % (239). Analysis of the responses to the questionnaire revealed that a vast majority (86.06 %) of students perceived MCQs as an important evaluation tool. A majority of students also had no objections to the frequency of the MCQ assessments (82.30 %) or the time allocated per question (82.86 %). The majority endorsed the view that the questions were clinically relevant (68.91 %) and that reading material in addition to the recommended textbooks and lecture notes were needed in answering forensic medicine MCQs (70.90 %). However, it was disturbing to note that a nearly half the number of students have had problems with understanding MCQs (42.86 %). Most students also indicated that the Forensic Medicine MCQs only evaluate recall ability (76.11 %) MCQs would remain a major component in Forensic Medicine examination. Thus a mechanism has to be developed to improve the quality of this evaluation tool.