Test categories

Categories are used (mostly) for aggregating the scores for the various questions and responses in terms of the learning outcomes that are being measured. They are also then referenced in the reports, by grouping together the scores for the questions that belong to each category. Certain categories, however, have other uses. This topic describes how to configure certain categories and their function.

Scratchpad

This category is only available to TAO Ignite or Enterprise.

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Definition

Used in

x-tao-option-scratchpad

Provides a test-taker with a place to make notes, in the form of a Scratchpad.

Parts, sections, items

For more information on how to configure this category, see Test-taker tool configuration.

Automatic media playback

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Definition

Used in

x-tao-sequence-ended-nav-next

This category is generally used for items containing one or more media files configured to play automatically. If this category is added, the next item (usually containing questions pertaining to the media) will display automatically once the media on the previous item has finished playing.

Items

Asset attachments for sessions (developing feature)

This category is under development and can be enabled as a Beta feature.

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Definition

Used in

x-tao-attachment-[ID]

Experimental support for adding attachments (such as PDFs) to items and tests via the experimental Assets in TAO Portal is now available. The category is configured during test authoring; the asset must previously be uploaded and stored in the TAO Portal. The attachment can be accessed by the test-takers during an assessment.

Parts, sections, items

  1. Enable the Assets beta feature in the My user section of TAO Portal.

  2. In the Assets module of TAO Portal, select Upload Asset to upload a supported file (such as PDF).

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  1. Once the file is uploaded, locate it in the Assets list.

  2. Copy the file’s ID from the ID column.

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  1. Return to the Content Bank.

  2. In Test Authoring, add a new category in the Category box: x-tao-attachment-

    • The asset can be added to a single item, or all the items in a section or part.

  3. Append the category name with the ID copied from the Asset’s list: x-tao-attachment-[ID]

    • Category string example: x-tao-attachment-df79c6e6-b2b4-455e-9ab7-9f4042f9830a

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  1. A new icon to access the attached file displays during a session. Whenever the same PDF is attached as assets to several items in a test (such as a Part or Section category), navigating from one of those item to the other will keep the position within the PDF identical during navigation.