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Using Matrix Puzzles to Assess Student Understanding in Economics

Author

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  • Walstad, William B.
  • Bosshardt, William

Abstract

A matrix puzzle is presented as an alternative method to assess student comprehension in economics. It uses rows to denote changes in an economic situation and columns to denote the outcomes affected by the changes. Students use Y (yes) or N (no) to answer each cell in the matrix, which requires students to relate the change to a particular outcome. Examples of matrix puzzles are provided with some results from university classes and suggestions for constructing other matrix puzzles. A major advantage of the matrix puzzle is its holistic approach to assessment that requires students understand what is caused and not caused by an economic change, as well as its compact presentation.

Suggested Citation

  • Walstad, William B. & Bosshardt, William, 2020. "Using Matrix Puzzles to Assess Student Understanding in Economics," International Review of Economics Education, Elsevier, vol. 35(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ireced:v:35:y:2020:i:c:s1477388020300207
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iree.2020.100193
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Nalebuff, Barry, 1987. "Choose a Curtain, Duel-ity, Two Point Conversions, and More," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 1(2), pages 157-163, Fall.
    2. William B. Walstad, 2018. "Assessment of economic competencies using a matrix puzzle and a document analysis," The Journal of Economic Education, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 49(4), pages 350-362, October.
    3. Michael Watts & Georg Schaur, 2011. "Teaching and Assessment Methods in Undergraduate Economics: A Fourth National Quinquennial Survey," The Journal of Economic Education, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 42(3), pages 294-309, July.
    4. Aricò, Fabio R. & Lancaster, Simon J., 2018. "Facilitating active learning and enhancing student self-assessment skills," International Review of Economics Education, Elsevier, vol. 29(C), pages 6-13.
    5. William B. Walstad, 2001. "Improving Assessment in University Economics," The Journal of Economic Education, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 32(3), pages 281-294, January.
    6. Nalebuff, Barry, 1990. "Puzzles: Queues, Coups and More," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 4(2), pages 177-185, Spring.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    assessment; puzzles; problem-solving; holistic testing; multiple-choice questions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A22 - General Economics and Teaching - - Economic Education and Teaching of Economics - - - Undergraduate

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