Purpose

The purpose of this investigation is to determine, by computer simulation, the probability distribution of scores on a multiple choice exam. The chances of obtaining a passing mark will be determined. An expected class average will be calculated as well.

Investigative Questions

I)         What is the probability distribution of scores obtained by a large number of students?

II)        What are the chances of getting a passing mark?

III)       What will be the expected class average?

All of the above will be investigated using computer simulation. A simulation program will be created using Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0. The program will be called “The Test Taker”. This program will simulate students taking a multiple choice exam. The students will be purely guessing throughout the entire exam.

The user of this program will be able to choose parameters such as the number of questions on the exam and the number of answer choices available for each question. The user will be able to choose how trials to simulate as well.