Date

7-2010

Department

School of Education

Degree

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Chair

Karen L. Parker

Primary Subject Area

Education, Tests and Measurements

Keywords

M4Q, Mayfield's Four Questions, Multiple-choice, Self-efficacy, test-taking strategy

Abstract

This study examined the effects of being taught the Mayfield's Four Questions multiple-choice test-taking strategy on the perceived self-efficacy and multiple-choice test scores of nursing students in a two-year associate degree program. Experimental and control groups were chosen by stratified random sampling. Subjects completed the 10-statement General Self-Efficacy survey and two additional statements based on guidelines by the survey authors and self-efficacy theorist Albert Bandura. The intervention consisted of weekly half-hour sessions to learn and practice M4Q. Survey data was statistically analyzed by group and by statement. Multiple-choice test scores were analyzed by group, level, test and test group. Statistically significant differences were found between the final experimental (n = 16) and control (n=17) groups in post-intervention perceived self-efficacy, change in perceived self-efficacy, specific self-efficacy factors, scores on the final standardized nursing test and the mean score of the predictor tests for the licensure examination. A significant correlation was found between the number of M4Q teaching sessions attended and 2nd year students' grades on two teacher-prepared tests. Results indicate the M4Q can have a positive effect on both self-efficacy and multiple-choice test performance. Suggestions for further research were discussed.

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