Code of Fair Testing Practices in Education



Code of Fair Testing Practices in Education

Introduction

Developed by a joint committee dealing in Fair Testing Practices, the “Code of Fair Testing Practices in Education”, in general, provides a complete guideline explaining appropriate methods for the supply and use of tests which are fair in nature and can be administered to a diverse variety of people irrespective of their demographic or other personal factors.

The term fairness in the Code refers to the concept of equal opportunity for all test takers to be informed about the general nature of the test, which would help them in their preparation for the administration process. Also, they should be provided with a brief description of the contents and the purpose of the test beforehand. Fairness also demands that the results of the test be reported accurately for all individuals or groups. In short, fairness needs to be maintained in every stage of the testing process (Cohen, Swerdlik & Sturman., 2013).

The Code separately attends to the roles of those who develop tests and those on whom these tests would be administered. It has not been designed to be made compulsory, and in some cases it may even be inapplicable (apa.org). However, the guidelines provided should be followed whenever applicable primarily in four significant areas explained below: 1. Developing and Selecting Appropriate Tests

The Code, in this section, guides those who develop tests to provide the test takers with adequate information and verification so as to aid them in making the right decision while selecting the appropriate tests. This can be ensured by providing them with sufficient details about the purpose and aim, psychometric properties, the contents, the method of administration, the accuracy of the test scores and the strengths and limitations of the test (Whiston, 2008). Furthermore, they should be informed about the training required to take up the test along with a sample or a practice test.

For test users, the Code in this area provides guidelines regarding the correct selection of the test as per their requirements. For this purpose, a test user must first review the purpose of the test, its components, skills that the test measures, sample or a practice test, and other accessible information. It further recommends that a user opts for a test for which comprehensive and accurate information is provided. In case of a disabled user, forms specially modified for the disabled ...