Midterm 1 - Introduction (Ch. 1)

Question 1

A ___ is a measurement device or technique used to quantify ______ or aid in the understanding and prediction of ______

Answer 1

test; behaviour; behaviour

Question 2

A ____ is a set of items designed to measure characteristics of human beings that pertain to behaviour (overt or covert)

Answer 2

psychological test

Question 3

What is the difference between an achievement, aptitude, and intelligence test? What term encompasses all 3 concepts?

Answer 3

• achievement: measures previous learning
• aptitude: potential for learning/acquiring a skill
• intelligence: general potential to solve problems, adapt, think abstractly, and profit from experience
• all encompassed by term HUMAN ABILITY

Question 4

What is reliability?

Answer 4

• accuracy, dependability, consistency, or repeatability of test results

Question 5

What is validity?

Answer 5

• meaning and usefulness of test results

Question 6

what is one thing all psychological tests have in common?

Answer 6

all require a person to perform a behaviour

Question 7

What is the difference between a type 1 and type 2 error in hypothesis testing?

Answer 7

T1: false positive (measure a result that isn’t actually there)
T2: false negative (don’t find effect when there actually is one)

Question 8

What are the 6 general assumptions of psychological tests?

Answer 8

• measure/predict what they purport to measure/predict
• behaviour (and therefore test scores) typically remain stable over time
• individuals understand test items the same way
• individuals will report accurately ab themselves
• individuals will report honestly
• test score is equal to true score plus some error

Question 9

What are 4 types of purposes for psychological tests?

Answer 9

• classification
• promoting self-understanding
• planning, evaluation, and modification of treatments
• scientific inquiry