Test Development

A test refers to the systematic procedure by which a sample of behavior is measured. Tests are used as part of the measurement process and constitute one way of making attributes observable. In this respect, tests can refer to a process or tool by [Page 893]which data is collected with regard to a defined attribute of interest. The subset or sample of behavior measured should be representative of the entire domain of interest. With a subset of information tested, an inference can be made about an individual's true status with regard to the attribute of interest.

The process of test development can be complex and meticulous, as described in this entry. However, if it is well-documented and comprehensive, a test can become a valuable tool for ...