The Various Psychological Tests - Essay Example

Introduction to Psychological Testing – 475 Introduction to Psychological Testing – 475 Through testing, individuals aretested so as to measure their ability as well as bring out a clear picture of the individual characteristics. With numerous tests existing, it is easier for the ability of the learners to be tested in various ways. However, it is of essence that the tests are valid and reliable if the tests have to yield the expect results. Definition of test As seen in the research conducted by Reynolds & Suzuki (2012), a test refers to an examination that seeks to analyze the correctness of an aspect. On yet another context, a test may be referred to as a tool of evaluation in which an examinee’s ability in different contexts such as intelligence, memory amongst others is obtained and evaluated. In the long run, the scores obtained from the evaluation process can be used to make valid conclusions. Simply put, tests are systematic procedures that seek to quantify and measure an individual’s behavior, cognitive abilities (Reynolds & Suzuki, 2012). Types of tests As indicated by Reynolds & Suzuki (2012), there are various psychological tests depending on the objective of the test, the manner of administration, duration amongst other. The categories of the psychological tests include mental ability tests, personality tests, neuropsychological tests, achievement tests and interests and attitude tests. As seen in the argument of Reynolds & Suzuki (2012), mental ability tests are tests that measure the cognitive ability of an individual. Among the cognitive abilities include intelligence, creativity, spatial visualization and the memory of the individual. Neuropsychological tests are tests that evaluate or measure the functionality of the brain and the CNS of an individual (Reynolds & Suzuki, 2012). These tests may also test the memory of the individual, the psychomotor coordination and their ability to make judgments. Achievement tests, on the other hand, are tests that measure the capability of individuals in various capacities. As Reynolds & Suzuki (2012), indicate, the achievement tests assess the capability of individuals in various levels of expertise such as in Science, Mathematics, Science, amongst other specific levels of achievement. The interest and attitudes tests are tests that measure the interests of an individual. Reynolds & Suzuki (2012) indicate that these tests may measure the occupational interests of an individual, what they feel about certain topics as well as their attitudes towards some groups or individuals. Personality tests in the description of Reynolds & Suzuki (2012) are tests that are designed in a way that they yield results on the personality of an individual. The personality tests may involve measuring the individual’s level of depression, stress level, the eating disorders or even their pathological conditions. These characteristics play a critical role in influencing the personality of an individual. Uses and Users of tests  Tests are used by numerous persons, institutions and organizations based on the need at hand. As seen in the research conducted by Camara, Nathan & Puente (2000), tests may be applied in the clinical setting in an endeavor to assess the therapeutical implications of remedies on patients, the status of the patient, the severity of their condition and the severity of the condition of the patient. In the education setting, the administration of tests is inescapable. Since the learning process is ongoing and an impact needs to be seen, tests must be administered on the learners. The tests are used to evaluate the learning process of the learners, for instance if they actively participate in the learning process, the comprehension skills and general achievement of the learners (Mislevy, 2004). At times the tests administered in the education setting are used to promote the learners to the next level. For the case of organizations, tests may be administered so as to select the best employees; thus, provide a basis for promotion to higher posts. Through the tests, the capabilities of individual are also determined through administration of tests. Tests may also be used in research in an attempt to come up with valid generalizations that ground other researches (Camara, Nathan & Puente, 2000), Comparing and Contrasting Reliability and Validity  Reliability and Validity are vital in all matters concerning testing. In the thought of Cook & Beckman (2006) validity in testing refers to a concept that is used to determine if the tests in question have succeeded in measuring the variables anticipated to be measured by the set tests. In simple terms, validity of the tests aims at evaluating if the tests have achieved their objectives or not, by analyzing the results. If the administration of the tests applies the correct measurements, it is expected that the anticipated outcomes will be achieved (Li, 2003). In this case, the tests may be regarded as valid as the tests can be relied beyond reasonable doubt. Reliability of a test, on the other hand, refers to the supposition that tests should be able to offer precise data and assumption that may be referred to again (Cook & Beckman, 2006). This is to mean that reliability refers to the constituency of the measurement. From the analysis of these two aspects, it is justifiable that reliability and validity are essential in the process of test administration. The two concepts also work in tandem to ensure that tests are successful. With validity and reliability, the tests will automatically be dependable, appropriate, effective and trustworthy (Mislevy, 2004). Reliable and valid tests can also pee termed as scientific and applicable in numerous settings. In regard to psychological tests, validity and reliability leads to a test being more scientific; thus, application in different settings. Conclusively, tests present an effective way of measuring the ability of an individual. From the essay, it is perceptible that the tests also have the ability to measure an individual’s attitudes and beliefs towards concepts such as their understanding on a job. The information provided by tests has also proven useful in various contexts such as organizations, clinics and even in education institutions. The types of tests are also numerous and vary according to the objectives of the test. However, the tests can only be successful if the concepts of validity and reliability are taken into full consideration. References  Camara, W. J., Nathan, J.S. & Puente, A. E. (2000). Psychological test usage: Implications in professional psychology. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 31(2), 141-154. Cook, D. & Beckman, T. (2006). Current Concepts in Validity and Reliability for Psychometric Instruments: Theory and Application. The American Journal of Medicine, 119 (2), 166.e7-166.e16. Li, H. (2003). The resolution of some paradoxes related to reliability and validity. Journal of Educational and Behavioral Statistics, 28, 89-95. Mislevy, R. (2004). Can there be reliability without reliability? Journal of Educational and Behavioral Statistics, 29, 241-244. Reynolds, C. & Suzuki, L. (2012). Bias in psychological assessment: An empirical review and recommendations. Handbook of Psychology, Assessment Psychology, 82-113.     Read More