Test Construction

Question 1

Step 1: Conceptualisation

Answer 1

Decide what the test will measure, how it will be administered, who it is for, why it is needed etc. Conduct initial literature review.

Question 2

Step 2: Construction

Answer 2

Establish the type and format of the test (multiple choice, Likert scale, yes/no answers etc) and develop and refine test items.

Question 3

Step 3: Initial Testing

Answer 3

Provide copies of the test to a large sample to test the items.

Question 4

Step 4: Item Analysis

Answer 4

Establish item difficulty (how many got it right), item validity (does it measure the right thing), item reliability (is it consistent) and item discrimination (does it separate high and low scorers).

Question 5

Step 5: Item Revision

Answer 5

Use reliability and validity data to change any items or instructions that can be improved. Give the new test to a large sample to establish test norms.