Patent ID: 8355665
Filing Date: 2013-01-15
Classification: G09B

Abstract:
1. A method of automated grading of formula-based multi-step problems using a Computer Algebra System (CAS) based computer program, including the steps of: a) providing (1) a memory means for storing said problems along with one or more formulas for solving steps of said problems, and (2) data to enable and facilitate assessment of correctness of said steps of said problems, said steps of said problems including a first or prior step and at least one subsequent or later step; b) storing at least one multi-step problem in said memory means along with one or more formulas for obtaining one or more later-step answers from prior-step answers that have been obtained for said problem; c) providing said CAS based computer program that can grade sets of simultaneously submitted answers to any or all steps of said at least one multi-step problem; d) providing a user interface with selective access to said memory means and said computer program; e) providing a global computer network with which said user interface can be connected to said memory means and said grading program; f) wherein a correct answer to one or more steps of said at least one multi-step problem can be obtained by any of one or more of said stored formulas, possibly involving different prior-step answers and possibly resulting in different values for which at least partial credit can be given; and g) providing an authoring tool to test data provided to enable correctness assessment for a problem for a correctness and robustness under actual or simulated grading conditions before said enabling data is stored.