| In recent years, multiple-choice tests have been used extensively in Vietnamese universities. This study was initiated in response to a need for current research concerning the use of multiple-choice tests in physics. It examined teachers' and students' perceptions of the multiple-choice test, their attitudes toward its uses in university courses and in entrance examinations, and how physics teachers have used this testing method.;This study was conducted in Cantho University in the South of Vietnam from June to October of 1997. Student questionnaires and teacher interviews were employed to gather data for the study. Approximately one thousand questionnaires were sent out and 71.8% were returned. In addition, nine physics teachers were interviewed. Collected data were coded and analyzed using, mainly, a descriptive approach.;Findings of the study reveal that teachers and students think the multiple-choice test can be used as a good testing method in physics. They believe that it can assess various learning outcomes, that it is fair, and that it has positive impacts on students' learning. Positive attitudes are evident toward the use of multiple-choice tests in physics for university courses and for entrance examinations. Physics teachers state that they have developed multiple-choice tests from their own experiences without training, and they have used test results mainly for grading. Tests have been administered fairly well by teachers.;Based on the findings, recommendations have been made concerning the use of multiple-choice tests in physics for university courses and for entrance examinations. Suggestions for further research are also addressed. |
