Pseudo-randomised CAA by 'preprocessing' MathML

The development of the Mathematical Markup Language (MathML) has enabled mathematics to be expressed as open, machine-readable code on the Web. By utilising technologies for creating dynamic, database-driven websites, it is possible to “preprocess” mathematics, creating a Web-based test in which each question contains pseudo-randomised elements and where simple questions can combine to form more complicated ones. This means a small bank of relatively simple questions and distractors can be used to create large numbers of more complicated questions for students to answer. The generation of large numbers of questions in an accessible format can be seen to be an advantage when meeting the requirements of SENDA [1]. Questions on basic differentiation were given to undergraduate students of Engineering so that an evaluation of the test system could be performed. The procedure of accessing machine-readable mathematics code unlocks huge potential for the use of current Web technologies in mathematics CAA.