The Extent to Which Teachers Use the Test Specification Table in the Evaluation Process "A Qualitative Study"

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the use of the specifications table in test preparation among teachers and the extent of its application in the educational field. This was achieved through interviews with a group of professors and teachers.

Study Findings

1. Importance of the Specifications Table: The participants mostly agreed on the importance of the specifications table as an organizational tool that helps in creating comprehensive and balanced tests. They all noted that the specifications table contributes to achieving fairness and balance in the distribution of questions and links the objectives with the content in tests.
2. Areas of Variation:
   • Application Details: Some focus on distributing questions based on behavioral objectives, while others emphasize levels of cognitive objectives.
   • Practical Application: There is variation among participants regarding the extent to which the specifications table is applied, especially among primary school teachers, who show limited or rare use of this tool.
   • Role of Supervisors: Opinions differ regarding the supervisors' attention to the method of test design. Some believe supervisors rarely inquire about this aspect, while others indicate a greater level of interest from supervisors.
3. Training Courses: Most participants had attended training courses on the specifications table, although the training was not comprehensive for everyone.