Parts of a Question

Question Fields

There are six fields in each Amplifire multiple choice and multiple correct questions:

• Question intro
• Question stem
• Correct answer (key)
• Incorrect answers (distractors)
• What You Need to Know (WYNTK)
• Additional learning

Question Introduction

The Question Intro and Additional Learning are optional components and not necessary for all questions. However, for questions that need more context or can be supported by additional learning, these components are available to authors.

The Question Intro must support the question stem, distractors, and explanation. We recommend writing it last after the other components are complete.

Question Stem 

Use these guidelines to create question stems:

• Have the question stem contain all the information necessary to understand the problem or question 
• Write the stem in the form of a question rather than a statement 
• Limit using negatively stated stems 
• Avoid the use of unnecessarily complex words – focus on testing understanding of learning objectives versus reading comprehension level 
• Avoid using information that gives away the correct answer 
• Align the stem with a learning objective 

Although these guidelines apply in most cases, it is important to note that there are exceptions and authors need to be flexible when using these guidelines and always keep in mind what is best for the learner.

Correct Answer (Key)

Incorrect Answers (Distractors)

Amplifire questions promote long-term memory creation. Learners must examine each answer choice, compare and contrast it, and accept or reject it. Incorrect answers—distractors—provide a frame of reference for the question and opportunities to address errors and Confidently Held Misinformation (CHM).

As you begin drafting the distractors, consider:

• Common misconceptions
• Everyday mistakes on the job
• Frequent questions in class
• Outdated information
• Potentially harmful errors of omission 

Multiple Choice

• Don’t include too many incorrect answers. Up to four is typically plenty.
• Make sure the correct answer is the only possible correct answer. If it isn’t, consider making the question a Multiple Correct Answer question.
• Make each incorrect answer count! Use them as opportunities to address commonly held misinformation (CHM).

Multiple Correct

• Don’t include “mark all answers that apply” verbiage. This is automatically included by the platform. (Although it does not appear in Authoring, it will show up for learners.)
• At least three answer choices must be included. Some or all can be correct. (If only one is correct, instead use the Multiple Choice question type.)

What You Need To Know

Let’s face it—most don’t like to read anymore. Our analytics supports that fact. So, we recommend building explanations that don’t overload learners, but make your content as interesting as possible.​

• Keep your explanation brief, (recommended 90–120 words).​
• Judiciously use graphics, videos, and dynamic content to enhance and explain concepts.​
  • This is especially true for workflows – show your learners as much as possible rather than relying on text.​
• Focus on the most important concepts.​

Use the Explanation to:​

• ​Explain “why” ​
• Correct confidently held misinformation ​
• Address ambiguity​
• As needed and appropriate, correct plausible distractors with explanations of why they are wrong​
• Include images that illustrate key points​
• Use the source material to add all the relevant details. Focus on correcting misinformation​

In the following example, the multiple choice responses are all plausible answers, as they are all mammal groups. However, it takes knowledge of each group's defining characteristics to classify a koala. The WYNTK explanation clearly and concisely defines those characteristics — what the learner needs to know — and offers an image to illustrate key points.

Additional Learning

Again, Additional Learning is an optional component and not necessary for all questions. However, for questions that can be supported by additional learning, these components are available to authors.