Vastavusotsustele

Vastavusotsustele is an educational assessment item type commonly translated as matching items or matching statements. In this format, test-takers are given two or more lists and must pair each item from one list with the most appropriate item from another. Typically, the task involves two columns: prompts or definitions on the left and possible matches on the right. Each left-hand item is matched to one right-hand item, and each right-hand item is used at most once, though some variations allow extra options or multiple correct matches.

Design and execution

Effective vastavusotsustele tasks use clear, parallel language across both sides to avoid ambiguity. Prompts should be concise and homogeneous in structure, making relationships explicit (such as definitions, examples, terms and their descriptions, or cause-and-effect links). Instructions should specify whether every item must be used, whether matches are one-to-one, and how to handle extra items on one side. In digital formats, interactions include drag-and-drop or selecting pairs; in paper formats, students write the corresponding letter or number.

Scoring and considerations

Scoring typically awards one point for each correct match, with most implementations offering exact one-to-one correspondence. Some designs allow partial credit for partially correct sets or permit more than one acceptable match, but that adds complexity to scoring. Advantages include efficient assessment of vocabulary, concepts, and relationships, and straightforward, objective grading. Limitations include a dependence on recognition over recall, potential for guessing, and risk of ambiguity if items are not carefully crafted.

Example

Left: A) Photosynthesis; B) Cellular respiration

Right: 1) Occurs in mitochondria; 2) Produces glucose used by the plant

Correct matches: A-2 and B-1.

See also

Matching items; item writing; assessment design.