Published most recently in 2014, The Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing is a guiding framework for the development, administration and interpretation of tests and assessments in the fields of education and psychology.
Created by the American Educational Research Association (AERA), the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Council on Measurement in Education (NCME), these standards aim to ensure the reliability, validity and fairness of tests and assessments used in educational and psychological contexts.
According to this framework, test developers should establish clear goals and define the target population for which the test is intended. They should use research to support test validity and reliability, and ensure the test measures what it is supposed to measure.
Standardized test administration procedures are emphasized to guarantee fairness and reliability. Test administrators are encouraged to undergo appropriate training to ensure their competence in administering the test. Testing conditions should be carefully considered to minimize potential sources of error or bias. In addition, the standards highlight the importance of accommodating individuals with disabilities or those who may face language barriers, ensuring that they have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their abilities.
The standards also provide guidance on test scoring and result reporting. Test developers are responsible for establishing clear and well-defined scoring guidelines to ensure consistency in scoring practices. Test takers should receive meaningful reports that accurately interpret their performance, providing valuable insights into their strengths and areas for improvement.
In interpreting test results, the standards emphasize the significance of validity and appropriate use. Test results should be considered within the context of the test’s purpose and the characteristics of the individuals being assessed.
Test security and privacy are other critical areas covered by the standards. Measures should be in place to safeguard test integrity and confidentiality. This includes preventing cheating, protecting test materials and ensuring the privacy of test takers’ personal information. Maintaining test security and privacy helps maintain the validity and fairness of the assessment process.
The standards emphasize ongoing evaluation and documentation. Test developers and administrators are encouraged to continuously monitor the validity, reliability and relevance of the tests they use. In addition, documentation on the test’s development, administration and interpretation procedures should be available for review when needed, providing increased transparency and accountability.
The Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing provide a solid framework for ensuring high-quality testing practices in the fields of education and psychology. By adhering to these standards, test developers can improve test validity, reliability and fairness, which can benefit test takers and society as a whole.
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