Electronic Evaluation Methods: A Scoping Review

There is a need to focus more on planning for the implementation of electronic assessment in the educational system. This study provided an overview of various electronic assessment methods, including structured, non-structured, and reasoning tests to explain the characteristics of a concept.

Materials & Methods:

This a scoping review was conducted by searching for the keywords Distance education, assessment, e-learning, e-assessment, virtual learning, electronic test, and formative assessment in Magiran, ISC, SID, Scopus, Science Direct, and PubMed databases. The review was performed in Persian and English language from 2000-September 2021. A total of 105 studies were extracted in the first step of the study. Then, the titles of the extracted texts were reviewed, and 52 documents, including articles, reports, and guidelines, were included in the review the abstract in the next step. Finally, the full text of 28 articles was reviewed and used in the present study based on the inclusion criteria.

Various structured and non-structured tests are introduced per learner assessment in medical education systems. The most critical structured tests include multiple-choice tests, blank and labeling questions, selection of essential points in the image, True/False questions, and simulations of the process implemented electronically. Essay questions, short answer questions, fill-in questions, scenario-based questions, oral examination, and reflection-based questions are classified into non-structured assessment methods. Project-based tests can also be used to assess learners' high cognition levels and develop an "assessment for learning" approach. The e-portfolio is recognized as a tool for learners to learn more deeply and increase their understanding and knowledge during the learning period. Reasoning tests can also be used electronically to assess decision-making and reasoning skills.

Electronic assessment provides a good platform for measuring different levels of cognition (from low to high), which is very important in medical education. The critical point is to choose the test under the educational goals, which can effectively improve the assessment's effectiveness. Therefore, the use of various methods appropriate to educational purposes is recommended.