Error Sources in Aptitude and Achievement Test Scores: A Review and Recommendation

Each year teachers, counselors, and administrators in schools throughout the nation rely on aptitude and achievement test scores to make decisions that affect the lives of people. Unfortunately, there does not seem to be adequate awareness of the possibility of error. This article provides an integrated review of the research dealing with sources of error in test scores. Emphasis is placed on identifying for the practitioner those qualities of situations and individuals which have been shown to have major effects on performance in testing situations. Recommendations for testing practices are made, and the dangers inherent in acceptance of aptitude and achievement test results as the sole basis for personnel decisions are pointed out.