Why read this book

This book is for item authors and researchers preparing and organizing assessments or analyzing the result data or log data from computer-based assessments.

For the following use-cases we have created section that allow to reach a particular goal without the need to read the entire book:

  • Quick start section 1.4 describes how CBA ItemBuilder project files that contain one or multiple tasks with single items or units can be previewd. If you are new to computer-based task authoring tools, you can download existing ItemBuilder projects, open them in the CBA ItemBuilder and use the preview function to view the items ‘live’. This allows, for instance, item reviewers to use the CBA ItemBuilder to view (and review) items.

  • Quick start section 1.5 provides the necessary information to explore the item scores, that are created by a particular task defined in an CBA ItemBuilder project file. This allows, for instance, domain experts to verify the scoring of items, that is to relate test-taker’s responses to result variables provided by the items.

  • Quick start section 1.6 shows how identifiers that can be found in (log) data can be linked to parts of the instrument, as it is required for scientists after obtaining data collected with the CBA ItemBuilder. This allows, for intsance, using mock items to explore interactive computer-based tasks.

  • Quick start section 1.7 explains how to revise existing items (e.g., adapt, adjust, modify or improve content). The ability to adapt the content of computer-based items without having to consult with the programmers or designers of the item material is one of the important prerequisites for open computer-based assessments.

  • Quick start section 1.8 summarizes how programmers can integrate content generated with the CBA ItemBuilder into their Web application. Moreover, it is explained how HTML content can be used as part of CBA ItemBuilder projects.1

  • Quick start section 3.3 gives hands-on instruction how to create simple single-page items using the CBA ItemBuilder. This section is intended for users who want to familiarize themselves with the CBA ItemBuilder while using the software.

  • Quick start section 7.1 provides an hands-on example how to use the assessment components created in section 3.3 to realize a typical offline deployment.

All quick start sections are cross-referenced to the relevant sections in the main text, allowing readers to dive deeper into the subject matter if needed.

  1. The CBA ItemBuilder is software designed for item authors who want to use or create components for computer-based assessment. Therefore, the CBA ItemBuilder is not a tool for programmers who can create web-based assessments with their development environments without the CBA ItemBuilder.↩︎