Wiley Web-Tests for Calculus
Upgrade
This section describes the new features available in the upgraded Web-Tests software.
Preview Button
Students can preview their answers before submitting them to be graded. The preview shows the
answer the student typed, set in standard mathematical format. This is particularly
valuable for students who may make small slips with grouping of parentheses.
In the new format, a formula question looks like:
When the student clicks on the Preview button, a popup screen will appear
like the one on the right. Notice that a common mistake would be for a student
to omit the parentheses around the term 4-2x. Using the preview button
prevents students from losing points on small slips li,e that, and aslo provides additional
warning if the answer the student types has mismatched parentheses, or otherwise incorrect
syntax.
Note also that formula questions now have a small HTML link under the text entry fields,
which bring up on-line help with typing matematical syntax.
New Question Modes
There are 17 different
question modes
supported by the upgraded WebTesting system. They fall
into three basic catagories: ``math-type'', ``multiple-choice-type'' and ``neither of these
two.'' There are LaTeX macros for assistance in writing tests for certain modes (including all the
math modes). Information on this package is available at
http://www.math.unl.edu/webtests/support/latex2webtest.
In-Lining the Webtests with a class homepage
The upgraded system provides a seamless entry and exit from other course pages. The instructor
can construct a straightforward URL which will link a student directly from a class homepage
into a test on the Wiley Web-Tests system. By inserting an appropriate link into the test
configuration file, the instructor can provide a return address to bring the student back
to the class homepage when the test is completed.