The generalizing of validity evidence is sometimes necessary when ______.
A) a test has been shown not to be valid for a particular purpose
B) when the construct that the test was designed to measure is not clearly defined
C) a test is proposed for use for a different purpose than it was originally validated
D) any time a new test is used

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a test is proposed for use for a different purpose than it was originally validated, generalizing the validity evidence is necessary. This is because the original validity evidence may not be directly applicable to the new purpose, and new evidence is needed to establish the validity of the test for the new purpose. Option A is incorrect because if a test has been shown not to be valid for a particular purpose, it is unlikely that generalizing the evidence will be helpful in establishing its validity for that purpose. Option B is incorrect because even if the construct that the test was designed to measure is not clearly defined, generalizing validity evidence is not a solution; instead, researchers should work to refine the construct and re-validate the test accordingly. Option D is incorrect because generalizing validity evidence is not necessary or appropriate every time a new test is used; the validity evidence will depend on the specific test and the purpose for which it is being used.

The Generalizing of Validity Evidence Is Sometimes Necessary When ______