The testing procedures and measurement concepts specified provide a check for those whose training in educational and psychological measurement is limited, or for those who are unsure about the level of tests for which they are eligible. This list represents the minimum knowledge necessary for the proper and ethical use of tests designated with an (R) on this website.
Test Selection
You understand how to select the appropriate instrument and how to determine whether the instrument measures what you need to measure. You know whether the norms are appropriate for your purpose and for the specific population you wish to test.
Administration
You understand the appropriate procedures and conditions for administration and realize that for some instruments results will be invalidated if precise procedures and ins are aware of the need to consider information beyond the scores to determine the appropriate classification.
Moderator Variables
You can estimate the extent to which other variables, such as gender, age, anxiety level, nationality, or client history, may affect the test results or comparisons with norm groups.
Interpretation
You understand how to properly interpret the instrument, including how to integrate test results with other information about the examinee. If computer-generated narratives are used as a basis for interpretation, you understand the limits of such narratives and retain personal responsibility for a thorough and accurate interpretation.
Responsible Testing Practices
You are willing to accept responsibility for the proper use of instruments in your organization, including ensuring that only certified individuals have access to the instrument, that the item content and scoring procedures are secured, that the copyright of all materials is honored, and that client confidentiality is maintained at all times.
Referral
You can identify the limits of your competence in testing and make referrals for administration or interpretation of instruments that exceed those limits.
Appropriate, ethical use of psychological instruments requires general knowledge of measurement as well as specific information about the test you are considering. Formal academic course work in tests and measurement or other equivalent training provides the necessary foundation for the proper use of most instruments. Membership in a professional organization whose code of ethics governs the sound use of educational and psychological instruments is also desirable.
With this background, a careful reading of the test manual is then necessary. Specialized knowledge and training are required for purchase of instruments that could be harmful to an individual if misused. For such instruments, graduate-level training in psychology or a related field is necessary to conduct a proper administration and interpretation.