The vast majority of testing programs rely on the tried and true traditional item types, such as the essay and the multiple-choice items.  These have a lengthy history of successful use and the measurement community has developed substantial expertise in optimal ways to develop these item types. 

In recent years, new innovative items types have become more main stream.  These innovative items often incorporate features and functions available in the computer-based format, such as multimedia, interactivity, or novel methods for examinees to record their answers.  Interactivity is often incorporated allowing examinees to perform tasks in a simulated version of their world instead of answering text-based questions about it.  Examinees can now record their answers through use of a computer keyboard, mouse, light pen, or microphone rather than pencil and paper.

While these innovative item types show great promise, thoughtful, deliberate design is needed to fully realize this potential.  And they are not for everyone.

The presenters will lead the presentation and discussion of a six-step process that we believe can help programs determine if innovative items are right for them and, if so, how to develop them.  This full approach is intended to help exam programs add innovative items that are of high measurement quality, logistically practical, and acceptably affordable.