Reliability and ValidityAs part of the test development process, researchers strive to create psychometrically sound instruments with acceptable levels of reliability and validity. When test items are

Bias in Testing and Assessment PSY3700 Multimedia Assessment and Psychometrics ©20 16 South University 2 Bias in Testing and Assessment Characteristics and Properties Test bias may occur due to errors in test items and in the scoring of tests, alterations in standardized conditions of test administration, and test scores leading to unsound decisions. In particular, bias can be introduced when the norms of a test are used on a sample of individuals who do not match the population for whom the test was intended. In this case, there is a lack of measurement equiva lence between the two groups (Fisher, 2013). A test is biased when its validity is different for various subgroups within a population (Gregory, 2013). Test bias is a statistical concept , whereas test fairness is based on values that uphold the rights of t est takers regardless of group membership. In the assessment of test fairness, subjective appraisals take precedence over objective ones (Gregory, 2013). Statistical tools to identify bias in tests include procedures such as factor analysis, multiple regr ession equations, intergroup comparisons of the difficulty levels for items previously labeled as "biased" or "unbiased," and rank ordering of item difficulties. Because there can be biases in the evidence obtained for content, construct, and criterion val idity, this is an important issue for test developers and administrators (Gregory, 2013). We will revisit these topics in Week 8 . PSY3700 Multimedia Assessment and Psychometrics ©20 16 South University 3 Bias in Testing and Assessment Characteristics and Properties References Fisher, C. (2013). Decoding the ethics code: A practical guide for psychologists (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. Gregory, R. (2013). Psychological testing: History, principles, and applications (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson. © 201 6 South University