Testing practices and attitudes towards tests and testing: An international survey

Project description

A shared goal of the International Test Commission (ITC) and the European Federation of Psychologists' Associations (EFPA) Board of Assessment is the improvement of tests and testing practices. In order to reach this goal, ITC and EFPA carry out various actions and projects, some of which are described in this paper. To better inform their work, the opinions of professional psychologists on testing practices were sought. A questionnaire of 33 items was administered to a sample of 20, 467 professional psychologists from 29 countries throughout the world. These data were then analysed with two sets of analyses that incorporated the clustered nature of the data. Exploratory factor analysis supported a five- factor solution. The dimensions involve items relating to: concern over incorrect test use, regulations on tests and testing, internet testing, appreciation of tests, and knowledge and training relating to test use. Multilevel analysis was then used to determine how scores on these scales were related to age, gender, and specialization, as well as how scores varied between countries. Finally, implications for future research are discussed.

Researchers

First name Last name Gender Rank Affiliated Institution Country
Karma Hassan Female Associate Professor American University of Beirut Lebanon

Bio: Associate Professor of Educational Psychology Measurement and Evaluation at the American University of Beirut, Lebanon, and Director of the Office of Institutional Research & Assessment (OIRA) at the University. Has extensive experience in teaching, undergraduate and graduate courses, training, and research in area of expertise. Has conducted and supervised research in test development/adaptation, validation, and use. As Director of OIRA, engaged in institutional assessment, development of annual assessment plans, and preparations for accreditation, program, and peer review in higher education. Participated and presented in local, regional, and international conferences on modern assessment, assessment in higher education, criterion of quality, conditions for student success, quality of student life, and language policies. Has published in international and regional journals and books in areas of expertise. A member of local, regional, and international organizations involved with educational research, assessment, and quality, as well as the Basic Education Strategic Planning Committee, the National Task Force for Governance in Higher Education in Lebanon. and the R4R Research Project. As UNESCO Consultant since 2007, has prepared several country and regional reports and conducted assessment studies.

Website

 

Scientific field

Education
 

Start Year

2014
 

End Year

2015
 

Social impact

Are you interested in disseminating your research work outside the academic institutions?

No

Are there institutions/organizations contacted you to disseminate your research project?

No

How did you disseminate your research work outside academic institutions?

What obstacles have you faced as you tried to facilitate the social impact of your research?