Critical Analysis and Improvement Perspectives of the Maturity Test in Mathematics in Albania

Source abstract

In recent years, there has been much discussion in Albania about the high school tests in mathematics. Their structure is almost the same every year. Despite the many discussions, there is no scientific study on this topic. This study aims to analyze the formulation of the test so that students feel comfortable and perform at their best. The methodology used includes several important parameters such as: types of questions/answers, distractors, language of questions, evaluation of tests using the MATH taxonomy and NISS skills; customization of the test and connection to high school mathematics objectives. The results of the study show that the test has two types of questions, closed and open, in a ratio of two to one. Distractors are not based on common errors, such as those resulting from poorly applied rules. Confusions due to ambiguity, mathematical logic, and syntactic problems are found. Almost all components of the MATH taxonomy are present where factual knowledge and fact systems predominate, followed by justification, interpretation, and understanding, but the components of information transfer and implications, conjecture, and comparison are missing. Among the Niss skills, problem solving, formulation, and resolution skills predominate, followed by mathematical thinking skills, while representational competence is missing. A weak point is the personalization of the text, where there are no questions with customizable difficulty levels. The test is in line with the objectives of the curriculum. Ultimately, this study is necessary for those who formulate admission tests and for mathematics teachers.