Measurement Concepts
What is the difference between measurement and assessment?
Measurement assigns numerical values to attributes, while assessment integrates multiple data points for decision-making.
What is reliability?
The consistency of a test or measurement.
What are two examples of standardized tests used in assessment?
WAIS-IV and BASC-3.
What is a raw score?
The initial, unadjusted result from a test.
Why is cultural fairness important in testing?
To ensure tests are valid and unbiased across different populations.
What is the purpose of measurement in counseling?
To inform decisions, diagnose needs, and evaluate progress.
What is validity?
The degree to which a test measures what it claims to measure.
What is a self-report inventory, and name one example?
A tool where individuals rate their own behaviors; e.g., Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).
What is a Z-score?
A standard score with a mean of 0 and a standard deviation of 1.
What are two ethical guidelines for using assessments?
Use reliable/valid tools and avoid tests with known biases.
Define descriptive statistics.
Statistics that summarize data, such as averages or percentages.
Name two methods to assess reliability.
Test-retest reliability and inter-rater reliability.
What is naturalistic observation?
Observing behaviors in real-world settings like classrooms or homes.
What does a confidence interval represent in assessment?
A range of scores that acknowledges measurement error.
What is a common limitation of projective techniques like the Rorschach test?
Controversial reliability and validity.
What is the role of inferential statistics in assessment?
To make inferences about a population based on sample data, using methods like t-tests and ANOVAs.
What is content validity?
The extent to which a test covers the entire domain of a concept.
What is triangulation in assessment?
Combining multiple data sources, such as test scores, interviews, and observations.
What is the difference between norm-referenced and criterion-referenced tests?
Norm-referenced tests compare performance to peers, while criterion-referenced tests measure against a standard or cutoff.
Why must counselors review test manuals before using an assessment tool?
To evaluate the reliability, validity, and appropriateness of the tool for their population.
What is a variable, and what are the two main types?
A variable is a characteristic being measured; the two types are independent and dependent variables.
How is Cronbach’s Alpha used in reliability assessment? What level should it not be great than?
It measures internal consistency among test items.
What is assessor bracketing, and why is it important?
Gaining awareness of one’s biases to minimize their impact on assessment.
Why are standard scores important in assessment?
They allow comparisons across tests by converting raw scores to a common scale.
What are two considerations when using self-report inventories?
Possible underreporting/overreporting and cultural relevance.