Nature and Uses of Tests

A test that evaluates an individual's performance relative to a group of similar individuals.

A test that measures an individual's ability against a specific skill, task or knowledge domain. It defines 'mastery'.

A test that measures an individual's ability against a specific skill, task or knowledge domain. It defines 'mastery'.

Data about a population of test-takers, used to compare individuals' performance.

The numerical score an individual receives on a test, before being compared to the group.

A specific standard or level of performance required to demonstrate competency in a skill, task, or knowledge domain.

Specific areas of knowledge or skills a test focuses on.

The context used for evaluating a test's result.

A type of domain-referenced test used to assess skill or knowledge mastery.

Describes a test-taker's knowledge, proficiency, or command of a specific content area.

Focuses on the surgeon's skill level in completing a surgical procedure; not their performance compared to other surgeons.

Focuses on whether a pilot can fly a plane and how proficient they are at flying; not their ranking relative to other pilots.

Example of a domain-referenced test to evaluate a student's ability to master the multiplication tables, not how their performance compares with other students.

This refers to achieving a specific level of proficiency in a skill or knowledge area, indicating a person's ability to perform tasks within that domain.

The interpretation of test results focuses on what a person knows or can do within a specific subject area.

Domain-referenced tests are widely used in education to assess student learning, diagnose learning difficulties, and guide instruction.

Domain-referenced tests are used in the workplace to evaluate specific skills and job knowledge required for a particular role.

Domain-referenced tests can assess whether individuals meet the minimum standards for a specific activity or profession.

Domain-referenced testing principles can be used to improve the effectiveness of teacher-made tests by ensuring they assess specific knowledge targets.

A large-scale example of using domain-referenced tests to assess educational performance across a nation.

A clear statement about what a student should be able to do after learning a specific topic. It describes the expected behavior.

To create a good test, you need to break down the topic into smaller parts, each with its own clear learning goal.

Objectives written in terms of observable actions, like 'can convert grams to ounces' or 'can write a paragraph'.

Objectives not only explain what students should learn, but also influence how teachers teach and how tests are made.

The process of creating individual questions or tasks for a test, each representing a specific learning objective.

The test creator's knowledge, experience, and good judgment play a big role in making sure the test accurately assesses learning.

A score on a mastery test that indicates whether someone has mastered the skill (pass) or not (fail), with no room for a 'partially mastered' result.

Mastery tests aren't focused on comparing individuals, the emphasis is on mastery. Any differences seen are usually in the time it takes to learn, not the final outcome.

Mastery testing is useful for assessing basic skills, as it helps ensure everyone reaches a certain level of understanding before moving on.

Mastery testing is less useful in subjects with less clear-cut content or at advanced levels, as it's hard to define 'mastery' objectively.

Creating a mastery test requires careful consideration of the number of questions and the required proportion of correct answers to define mastery.

Mastery testing focuses on mastering specific skills, not comparing you to others. Norm-referenced tests rank individuals on their performance relative to a group.

Mastery testing is less suitable for subjects where 'complete mastery' is difficult to define or measure, like understanding, critical thinking, or creative expression. These areas often involve continuous growth and learning.

The minimum standard of performance required to meet a specific requirement or pass a certain test. It sets a 'cutoff' to ensure someone has the necessary abilities.

The minimum score a person needs to achieve on a test to meet a specific requirement. It helps decide who passes or fails based on a set standard.

When using cutoff scores for important decisions, it's best to consider information from multiple sources and use a range of scores, not just relying on a single test.

Cutoff scores are essential in situations where a certain level of skill or knowledge is absolutely necessary for safety, success, or public interest. They ensure individuals meet the required standards for specific roles.