Case-based Exams for Learning and Assessment Experiences in an Information Systems Course

Cases have become commonplace for learning as they bring a connection to reality though rarely used for assessment. The case-based exam combines learning with assessment in the same instrument. Students familiarize themselves with a pre-exam version of the case while applying their textbook knowledge to the expected questions. The actual exam case adds additional information that invokes higher cognitive levels while also restricting the range of correct responses to allow for systematic grading. The paper describes the structure of the case-based exam for designing a database and analyzing data to show by example various question formats. In addition, a rationale for case construction, question formulation and exam administration provided.