Reliability of Comparably Wriften Two-Option Multiple-Choice and True-False Test Items

Abstract

This study compares two-option multiple-choice vocabulary test items with comparably written true-false test items. Results indicate that the multiple-choice format provides a significantly more reliable measure than the true-false format. Results further indicate that the true and false items do not appear to be measuring the same abilities. Potential strategies are discussed that an examinee may use for solving two-option multiple-choice and true-false test items in an effort to explain these results.