Testing and Individual Differences Flashcards
What is the purpose of a test?
Tests are used to make decisions.
What do psychometricians do?
- measurement psychologists
- analyze psychological data
- test development
- measure mental traits and processes
Define:
constructs
theoretical ideas about a group of events related to behavior
Examples:
intelligence, happiness, honesty
Define norms as it relates to testing.
standards used to compare the scores between test takers
List three traits of a good test.
standardized
reliable
valid
Define standardization as it relates to testing.
Two-part test development process:
1) establishes test norms from test results of large sample
2) ensures test is administered and scored uniformly for everyone
Define reliability as it relates to testing.
consistency of results over time
What are the four types of reliability?
1) test-retest
2) split-half
3) equivalent (or alternate) form
4) interrater
Define:
test-retest reliability
- scores are consistent on a given test when the same participants are tested on two separate occasions
- problematic because of familiarity with test questions
Example:
If you take your French test once on Monday and again on Friday, your scores should be similar.
–
Define:
split-half reliability
consistency between scores on one half of the test and scores on the other half of the test
Example:
The scores on even-numbered questions should correlate with the scores on odd-numbered questions.
Define:
equivalent form reliability
- two tests with different questions about the same material given to the same participants produce consistent scores
- a.k.a. alternative form reliability
Example:
Your score on the September SAT should be consistent with your score on the October SAT.
Define:
interrater reliability
consistency in scores given by different graders
Example:
If you pass your road test with one instructor, you should pass the test with any instructor.
Define validity as it relates to testing.
extent to which a test accurately measures what it is supposed to
What are the four types of validity?
1) face
2) content
3) construct
4) criterion-related
- predictive
Define:
face validity
content of the test reflects the material it is supposed to, according to the test takers
Example:
The AP Psych exam should reflect the material provided in the test outline.
Define:
content validity
content of the test reflects a wide range of the material it is supposed to, not just a small portion
Example:
Research on depression should examine the biological, behavioral, and cognitive aspects.
Define:
criterion-related validity
test scores correlate with other measures of the same material
Example:
Scores on the written driving test should correlate with scores on the road test.
Define:
predictive validity
test scores accurately predict a future result
Example:
High SAT scores should predict high grades in college.
Define:
construct validity
operational defintion of the tested variable agrees with its theoretical construct
Example:
The score on an IQ test should reflect one’s intelligence.
If a test is __________, someone will earn the same score no matter who scores it.
standardized
If a test is __________, someone will earn the same score no matter where, when, or how many times they take the test.
reliable
An algebra exam that contains questions about geography lacks __________.
validity
What is the difference between projective tests and inventory tests?
Projective tests, including the Rorschach Inkblot or TAT, allow for interpretation of ambiguous stimuli, while inventory-type tests require answers to standardized questions.
Define and give an example of:
performance test
- test taker knows how to respond to questions and tries to succeed
- can be speed test or power test
Examples:
IQ tests, SATs, AP exams, road test, classroom tests
What is the difference between a speed test and a power test?
A speed test presents a large number of easy questions in a limited time frame, while a power test presents a varying level of questions and allots more time.
Define and give an example of:
observational test
test taker is assessed on specific behavior or performance
Example:
job interview
Define and give an example of:
self-report test
test taker describes his or her own beliefs, attitudes, feelings, or physical state
Example:
Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2) and other personality tests
Define and give an example of:
ability test
- examines performance on cognitively demanding tasks, including scholastic performance
- includes aptitude and achievement tests
Examples:
SATs and AP exams
What is the difference between an aptitude test and an achievement test?
- An aptitude test, such as the SAT, predicts a person’s future performance or his/her capacity to learn
- An achievement test, such as the AP Psych exam, assesses what a person has already learned
Define and give an example of:
interest test
uses a person’s likes and dislikes to predict future life satisfaction
Example:
Strong-Cambell Interest Inventory and other career tests