This is the first practitioner-oriented guide to basic psychometrics--the science behind test construction and validation. It is an essential course text and clinical reference for anyone who needs to select and administer diagnostic tests or review test score data obtained by others. Without assuming any mathematical background, the author describes the fundamentals of diagnostic testing, how to interpret score data, and how specific tests are used in school psychology, special education, counseling, and other contexts. Concepts such as reliability, validity, and fairness and test bias are explained in an accessible, conversational way. Detailed case examples illustrate the dos and donts of presenting test score data to clients, parents, and teachers in oral feedback and written reports.
Benjamin J. Lovett, PhD, is Associate Professor of Psychology and Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, where he teaches courses in psychoeducational assessment, legal and ethical issues for school psychologists, and the history of psychology. Dr. Lovett has over 100 publications, focusing on the assessment of high-incidence disabilities, the provision of testing accommodations, and the nature and management of test anxiety. He also serves as a consultant to schools and testing agencies on disability and assessment issues.
Pedagogical Features:
*End-of-chapter exercises that emphasize application and understanding, with answers at the end of the book.
*Key terms are bolded throughout and accessibly explained in the end-of-book glossary.
*Resource appendix--annotated guide to articles and books on more advanced topics in psychometrics, assessment, and testing.
"It has been a struggle to find a resource that strikes the right balance of theory and applied practice to empower future practitioners with regard to test use, selection, and interpretation. Many of us have been clamoring for a resource like this for use in our masters-level programs! The presentation is incredibly accessible, and is anchored in a strong balance of practical, timely examples throughout."--Laura M. Spenceley, PhD, Dean, School of Education, State University of New York at Oswego
"The case examples are really helpful and the writing style very accessible."--Matthew K. Burns, PhD, Department of Special Education, University of Missouri-Columbia
"This well-written text offers a concise, clinically relevant guide to using psychometrically based tests in psychology, social work, counseling, and related areas. The authors voice is clear and approachable, almost like he is speaking with you. Discussion of bias and fairness is particularly well done, and will help students to deconstruct the many issues that are involved when using psychometric instruments. I was particularly impressed with the discussion of norming and multicultural issues, as this topic can be dissentious. The exercises at the end of each chapter are effective and thoughtful; the way they span multiple professional areas helps to make the volume applicable to students across various training programs."--J. Gayle Beck, PhD, Emerita Chair of Excellence, Department of Psychology, The University of Memphis-
