Models of Psychometrics and SamplingAs the science of test theory and testing, psychometrics has two models, each of which is supported by a different set of assumptions. Based on a researcher's goals

Functional Test Design PSY3700 Multimedia Assessment and Psychometrics ©20 16 South University 2 Functional Test Design The Two Models of Psychometrics Functional test design rests on the theory that performance is related to carrying out a specific task or tasks, such as what is detailed in a job description or listed in a group of criteria that need to be satisfied. In constructing test items for this model of psychometrics, the job of the test creator is to not only clearly identify the personal traits or qualities needed for the job but also to delineate the specific abilities required to perform the tasks in the job description. Test items would then consist of various traits or behaviors that are deemed to be manifestations of the criteria or content areas as outlined in the job description. If this occurs successfully, test scores should effectively identify good -fit candidates and differentiate them from those who are not suitable for the job (Rust & Golombok, 2009). In educational settings, functional tests may describe concise competencies t hat students are expected to demonstrate after having completed a course. Accordingly, test items would be written to align with course objectives and would effectively place students along a continuum or sort them into "pass" or "fail" categories. In clin ical settings, functional tests may be used to, for example, isolate brain damage by assessing the ability to perform specific activities of each hemisphere. For example, exposing participants to activities believed to be housed in the left or right hemisp here could help isolate the specific parts of the brain that have been affected by a stroke (Rust & Golombok, 2009). Because the model of functional test design rests on the assumption that skills demonstrated in a real - world setting are better indicators of content or criteria areas, functional tests are often used alongside other tests that measure competencies. For example, a graduate student of clinical psychology may have a high grade point average (GPA) but limited or no skills related to counseling p atients. A functional test design could be used as a checks and balances system to assess the application of the key concepts and theories acquired through coursework. The student clinician would be administered a functional test designed to observe his or her quality of counseling skills, as manifested through behaviors related to rapport building, active listening, and empathic responding, demonstrated in a mock or even real -world setting (APA, n.d.). PSY3700 Multimedia Assessment and Psychometrics ©20 16 South University 3 Functional Test Design The Two Models of Psychometrics References American Psychological Association (APA) (n.d.). Applying assessment strategies in psychology . Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/ed/governance/bea/assess -overview.aspx Rust, J., & Golombok, S. (2009). Modern psychometrics: The science of psychological assessment (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Taylor & Francis. © 201 6 South University