One of the most common questions among candidates preparing for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations is whether JAMB sets different questions for different days of the exam. Understanding how JAMB generates and administers its questions can help demystify this process. In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors that influence the variation of questions across different days of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
How JAMB Generates Questions
JAMB employs a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) system to conduct its UTME. This means that the questions are stored in a vast database and selected randomly by a computer algorithm based on specific criteria, including:
- Subject: Different subjects have unique sets of questions.
- Topic: Questions cover various topics within the syllabus.
- Difficulty Level: Questions vary in difficulty to assess different levels of understanding.
- Question Count: Each session may contain a different number of questions.
Importantly, JAMB does not create entirely new questions every year. Instead, it updates and modifies existing questions from previous years. Additionally, the board incorporates past questions from other examinations, such as WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB, to enhance its question bank. A team of experts reviews and validates these questions before they are uploaded into the database, ensuring quality and relevance.
How JAMB Administers Questions
JAMB administers the UTME in batches, typically over a period of one week. Each batch consists of multiple sessions, and each session accommodates a fixed number of candidates. On exam day, each candidate is assigned:
- A Unique Registration Number: This number identifies the candidate.
- A Seat Number: Helps in the physical arrangement during the exam.
- A Specific Computer Terminal: Each candidate uses a designated terminal linked to a central server managing the CBT system.
Upon logging in, the CBT system randomly selects a set of questions from the database tailored to the candidate’s subject. Candidates must answer the questions within a specified time frame, after which the system automatically marks their responses and generates a score report.
How JAMB Varies Questions Across Different Days
JAMB does not use the same questions for all candidates in the same session or on the same day. Instead, the examination body varies the questions across different days by utilizing various combinations and permutations from its extensive question database. Here’s how JAMB ensures fairness and integrity:
- Random Selection: Each candidate receives a different set of questions, ensuring that no two candidates have the same experience.
- Shuffled Options: The order of the questions and the answer options are shuffled to deter cheating.
- Standardized Content: While questions may vary, JAMB maintains consistency in content and difficulty level to ensure that all candidates are assessed fairly.
Despite these variations, JAMB guarantees that the questions measure the same learning outcomes and objectives, providing an equitable testing environment for all candidates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, JAMB sets different questions for different days of the UTME, ensuring that no candidate gains an unfair advantage or disadvantage. Utilizing a sophisticated CBT system, JAMB randomizes and administers questions from a vast database while employing various techniques to maintain the integrity of the examination process. The primary aim is to fairly evaluate candidates’ knowledge and skills in a consistent manner.
FAQs
Do candidates see the same questions on different days?
No, candidates will not see the same questions as JAMB uses random selection from a diverse database.
How does JAMB ensure fairness in the examination?
JAMB ensures fairness by standardizing the content and difficulty of questions, regardless of the examination day.
Are new questions introduced every year?
JAMB updates and modifies existing questions but does not create entirely new ones annually.
Can JAMB questions be similar to past exam questions?
Yes, JAMB incorporates past questions from other examinations to enrich its question bank.
What measures does JAMB take to prevent cheating?
JAMB shuffles questions and answer options, ensuring that each candidate has a unique exam experience.
For further information and updates about JAMB and the UTME, stay tuned to our blog!