The development and implementation of a two-tier multiple choice test related to the concepts of oxidation-reduction reactions and galvanic cells

Abstract

In recent years there has been growing interest in research concerning students’ understanding of electrochemistry concepts. The two-tier multiple choice tests have played an important role in helping researchers determine students’ level of understanding and in identifying specific misconceptions. The aim of current research was to develop a two-tier multiple choice test related to the concepts of oxidation-reduction reactions and galvanic cells, and to examine the applicability of this test. For this aim, primarily the students’ misconceptions about related issues were identified in consideration of the literature. Then, a two-tier multiple choice test consisting of 19 items was developed based on the misconceptions identified. As a result, a valid and reliable two-tier multiple choice test was confirmed for the identification of 11th grade students’ misconceptions about the concepts of oxidation-reduction reactions and galvanic cells. In addition, the students’ misconceptions were discussed by evaluating answers given during the test.