Dr. Natalie Michaels, professor of occupational therapy and physical therapy, represented Belmont University by presenting her research on Language Variation in Multiple Choice Testing at the Higher Education International Round Table Symposium at Oxford University in July.  Her research, done in collaboration with Timothy Stewart, Ron Barredo, Debbie Edmondson, Edilberto Raynes and Elizabeth Kunnu, focuses on the way students interpret the language utilized during multiple-choice tests, and how this interpretation affects their answers.

This conference was held at the Harris Manchester College in the University of Oxford, Oxford, England. Harris Manchester College is one of the 38 colleges that make up the University of Oxford, and those presenting can stay in one of the college dorms. All meals are also served on the campus.

Membership in the Round Table is by invitation only. The International Round Table Symposium is an international organization created to promote education and the discussion of various topics “that enrich the human experience and enhance the human condition… in a think-tank atmosphere.” Presenters from all over the world meet to present their research. After each presentation, there is an opportunity for a hearty discussion with difficult questions and intellectual repartee. The presenters also received a tour of Oxford, which is an area rich in educational history.

Dr. Michaels’ presentation in Oxford was extremely well received, and she received requests to perform research in collaboration with professors from three other universities during the symposium.