Inference-Making and Reasoning: Refinement of an Assessment for Use in Gateway Biology Courses, Illinois, 2018-2019

The goal of the Inference-Making and Reasoning in Biology (IMRB) measure was two-fold: To develop a measure that is reliable, valid, and fair across male/female, Under-Represented Minority (URM)/non-URM, and first-generation college/not first-generation students. To document that the measure can predict undergraduate introductory biology course grades Two different 15-item, 1-hour forms were developed. Examinees (4-year college students planning to take or already taking introductory biology) do not need any specific preparation or knowledge before taking the assessment, as they are given all the information they need to reason with and are asked to draw valid conclusions with that information. These forms can be used in any order and may be administered by any research or course staff. They can be given on paper or on computer, to individuals or groups, once or twice per semester.