Final answer:
Instructors prefer essay exams because they promote critical thinking skills, a deep understanding of the subject matter, and the development of writing skills.
Step-by-step explanation:
Instructors tend to prefer essay exams because they promote a deep understanding of the subject matter and critical thinking skills. Essay exams require students to analyze and synthesize information, rather than simply regurgitating facts. They also provide an opportunity for students to showcase their writing skills and express their ideas in a coherent and organized manner.
By requiring students to complete and understand the readings, essay exams ensure that students are actively engaged with the course material. This leads to better class discussions and lectures, as students have a solid foundation of knowledge to draw from.
Furthermore, essay exams allow instructors to assess students' understanding of core concepts and encourage them to develop their own arguments and ideas. This type of assessment promotes higher-order thinking and helps students build critical thinking skills that are essential for success in their academic and professional lives.