A Brief Introduction to Numbas

Chris Graham
School of Mathematics, Statistics & Physics, Newcastle University

Introduction

In this short session I will cover:

The background to Numbas and its key features.
Some case studies of how we use Numbas at Newcastle.
How to get started creating tests from existing questions and writing your own.

What is Numbas?

Numbas is an open-source system developed by the e-Learning Unit of Newcastle University's School of Maths and Stats, based on many years of use, experience and research into e-assessment.

It's aimed at numerate disciplines.

Everything runs on the client - no backend server, even for maths.

It creates SCORM-compliant exams which run entirely in the browser, compatible with VLEs such as Blackboard and Moodle.

Design goals

Scalable, reliable and accessible to a broad range of users.
Good at maths, but usable for other subjects too.
Good-looking and easy for students to use.
Used by question authors who aren't experts.
Emphasis on creating rich formative e-assessment and learning materials.
Feedback an important part of the design and implementation.

Why use Numbas?

Easy to obtain, use and tailor to your own requirements.
You have full control over the creation, use and dissemination of assessment.
Customisable everywhere, from appearance down to core functionality.
Browser-based so you can include all that the web can offer.
Sustainability built in - fully supported by the School of Maths and Stats at Newcastle.